UC-NRLF 


B   M   33D   ISb 


DEPOEIPTIYE    CATALOGUE 


ESSE^iilL  vlLS 


AND 


Organic  Chemical  Peepaeations 


f'Mrpx.  EO    BY 


FREDERICK    B    POWi^R,  Ph.G.,  Ph.D. 

Director-  of  the  Labo  ntories  nf  Frifzsche  Brothers,  at  Garfield,  X.  J. 


PUBLISHED   BY 

FEITZSCHE   BEOTHERS 

NEW  YORK 
AND  Garfield,  N.  .T. 

Bkanch  of  SCHIMMEL  &  CO. 

LeIPSIC  and   r'fAOllE 


REESE  LIBRARY 

OF    1HI-: 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA. 

l^eceived  ,  iqo     . 

z/lccessioi!  No.        J-^-tri^    •    Cla^sNi). 


DESCRIPTIVE    CATALOGUE 


OF 


Essential  Oils 


Organic  Chemical  Preparations 


COMPir^ED    BY 


FREDERICK    B.   POWER,  Ph.G.,  Ph.D. 

Director  of  the  Lahnratorics  of  Fritzstche  Brothers,  at  Garfield,  N,  J. 


ra^ 


PUBLISHED   BY 

FEITZSCHE    BROTHERS 

NEAV  YORK 

AND  Garfield,  N.  .T. 

( 

BRA^-CH  OF  SCHDIMEL  &   CO. 
Leipsic  and  Prague 


u 


'^^(. 
^%=^^ 

^#\?^ 


Entered, 

according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1894,  by 

Feitzsche  Beothees, 

in  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress 

at  Washington,  D.  C. 


CHEEOUNY  PEINT,  NEW  TOBK 


PREFACE. 


rriHE  title  of  the  little  work  here  presented  is  believed  to  correctly 
indicate  its  character  and  scope.  It  was  not  the  design  to  pro- 
duce a  treatise  on  essential  oils  in  which  all  the  points  of  interest  con- 
nected therewith  might  be  considered,  such  as  the  character  and  com- 
mercial soui-ces  of  the  crude  materials,  and  the  methods  of  obtaining 
the  oils  therefrom,  nor  has  any  attempt  been  made  to  present  detailed 
information  regarding  the  chemical  characters  of  the  large  number  of 
individual  substances  of  which  the  various  essential  oils  are  composed. 
The  aim  of  this  compilation  was  rather  to  bring  together  in  a  some- 
what clasfjified  and  convenient  form  all  the  essential  oils  and  chemi- 
cal preparations  which  are  now  or  have  heretofore  been  produced  in 
either  our  American  or  German  laboratories,  with  a  synopsis  of  their 
principal  characters,  such  as  botanical  source,  physical  properties, 
chemical  constituents  or  composition,  tests  for  purity,  etc. 

Although  a  few  of  the  oils  here  enunaerated  are  not  regularly 
manufactured  by  us,  they  represent  in  such  cases  either  those  which 
have  been  distilled  for  jmrely  scientific  or  experimental  purposes,  and 
often  for  the  first  time,  or  those  which,  for  commercial  purposes,  are 
produced  almost  exclusively  in  their  native  countries,  such  as  the  oils 
of  the  Citrus  fruits,  Cassia  Oil,  the  Indian  Grass  Oils,  and  similar 
important  articles,  but  which  have  been  prepared  in  the  laboratories 
of  our  Leipsic  house  on  a  smaller  scale  for  the  purpose  of  establish- 
ing the  chemical  and  physical  characters  of  perfectly  pure  products. 
Through  the  controlling  inflvience  of  such  investigations  many  foreign 
oils  which  were  heretofore  largely  adulterated,  even  at  the  place  of 
production,  have  been  greatly  improved  in  quality,  and  greater  uni- 
formity attained. 

iii 

92419 


IV  PREFACE. 

Wliile  the  essential  oils  produced  in  our  American  laboratories 
and  in  those  of  our  Leipsic  house  are  known  to  be  absolutely  jiure. 
and  to  rejireseut  normal  distillates  from  the  best  crude  material,  the 
investigations  referred  to  have  rendered  it  possible  for  us  to  adopt 
standards  of  purity  for  oils  not  distilled  by  ourselves,  and  thus  to  fur- 
nish these  from  the  first  sources  of  supplj',  and  also  of  the  finest  at- 
tainable quality.  As  an  examjile  of  our  endeavors  in  this  dnection, 
we  may  refer  to  the  investigation  of  Oil  of  Peppermint. 

It  will  be  apparent  that  in  the  prejjaration  of  this  little  work  the 
facts  and  information  have  been  chiefly  gathered  from  the  series  of 
"Berichte"  or  "Semi -Annual  Reports"  regularly  issued  by  our 
Leipsic  house  (Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.).  These  have  been  carefully 
reviewed  for  this  purpose,  and  special  aid  has  been  afforded  in 
the  task  by  utilizing  the  table  appended  to  the  Bericht  {Semi- 
Annual  Report)  for  October,  1893.  It  may  be  observed,  however,  that 
the  work  has  been  so  extended  as  to  include  a  few  oils  not  enume- 
rated in  the  table  i-eferred  to,  that  more  detailed  descrij^tions  and 
tests  are  recorded,  and  a  further  classification  adopted,  which  sepa- 
rates the  oils  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopceia  of  1890  from  the 
non-official  ones.  A  third  subdivision  of  the  work  includes  a  list  of 
Organic  Chemical  Preparations,  a  considerable  number  of  which  rep- 
resent the  well  characterized  and  more  important  constituents  of  the 
essential  oils. 

In  this  synoptical  treatment  of  the  subject  it  was  not  considered 
expedient  to  include  all  the  numerous  citations  of  current  literature 
relating  thereto,  nor  was  it  deemed  practicable  to  consider  the  large 
number  of  derivatives  of  individual  substances,  which,  as  those 
familiar  with  the  subject  are  aware,  would  require  a  series  of  ex- 
tended monographs.  Those  desiring  more  complete  information  on 
many  points  will  naturally  refer  to  recent  works  on  organic  and 
pharmaceutical  chemistry  and  the  dictionaries  of  chemistry,  while 
the  more  important  original  publications  may  be  found  in  Liebig's 
Annalen  der  Chemie,  in  the  Beridite  der  deittschen  cliemisclien  Gesell- 
schaft  (Berlin),  the  Journal  fur  praktische  Chemie  (Leipzig),  Comptes 
rendns  (Paris),  Bulletin  de  hi  Societe  chimiqite  (Paris),  Journal  of  the 
Chemical  Society  (London),  American  CJieniical  Journal  (Baltimore), 
and   the  leading  pharmaceutical  periodicals.     When   these  sources  of 


PREFACE.  V 

inforniatiou  are  not  available,  abstracts  of  original  papers  may  usually 
be  found  in  the  Jahveshericht  der  Chenite,  JaluimcJi  do-  Clicmie 
(Braunschweig),  Jahreshericht  der  Phannacie  (by  Dr.  H.  Beckurts), 
the  British  Yearbook  of  Pharviacy,  and  the  Report  on  the  Progress  of 
Pharmacy  in  the  Proceedings  of  the  American  Pharmacetdical  Asso- 
ciation. 

It  may  be  stated  by  way  of  explanation  that,  in  order  to  avoid 
repetition,  the  specific  gi-avities  noted  in  the  following  pages  refer  to 
a  temperature  of  15°  C,  unless  otherwise  specified,  and  that  the 
optical  rotations  refer  uniformly  to  a  tube  of  100  millimeters.  Tlie 
solubilities  refer  to  parts  by  volume,  and  to  alcohol  of  a  specified 
strength  by  volume. 

In  the  arrangement  of  the  official  oils  the  descriptions  are  given 
under  the  official  English  titles,  such  as  Oil  of  Hedeoriui  for  Oil  of 
Pennyroyal,  Oil  of  Myrcia  for  Oil  of  Bay,  etc.,  and  with  the  non- 
official  oils  the  descriptions  follow  the  names  by  which  they  are  most 
commonly  known.  Where  this  for  any  reason  has  not  seemed 
practicable,  suitable  cross-references  are  given,  which,  together  with 
a  strictly  alphabetical  arrangement,  renders  a  further  index  i-eference 
unnecessar}^ 

In  the  preparation  of  this  little  work  we  have  indulged  the  hope 
that  it  may  be  found  useful  for  reference,  and  to  possess  in  some  degree 
both  scientific  and  practical  interest  and  value.  With  consideration 
of  the  intense  activity  now  being  manifested  in  the  truly  scientific 
study  of  the  constituents  of  essential  oils,  it  may  also  serve  to  indi- 
cate the  deficiencies  of  existing  knowledge  in  many  directions,  and 
thus  incite  to  further  careful  research  in  this  interesting  and  fruitful 
branch  of  science. 

FRITZSCHE  BROTHERS. 

New  York,  June,  1894. 


i 


^^M 


PART  I. 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Recognized    by  the  PharmaeoiDceia  of  the  United  States  of  Anieriea. 
Seventh  Decennial  Revision,   1890. 


Oil  of  Allspice,  see  Oil  of  Pimeuta. 

Oil  of  American  Wormseed,  see  Oil  of  Clieiiopoclinm. 

Oil  of  Anise.  Olenni  Anisi. 

(German:  Anis-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Pimpbiella  Amsuni  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Umhelliferce). 

' '  A  colorless  or  pale  yellow  liquid,  having  a  characteristio,  aromatic 
odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.980  to  0.990  at  17°  C."*  Its  optical 
rotation  is  very  slightly  to  the  left.  "  At  a  temxjerature  usually  between 
10°  and  15°  C.  (14°  to  19°,  Schinnnel  &  Co.)  it  solidifies  to  a  white, 
crystalline  mass."  The  chief  jwrtion  of  the  oil,  over  90  per  cent., 
consists  of  anethol  Cio  Hio  O  (see  the  latter,  under  Chemical  Preparations, 
Part  III).  The  chemical  character  of  the  other  constituent  of  the  oil, 
which  is  liquid  at  ordinary  temperatures,  has  not  yet  been  determined, 
but  it  is  apparently  a  terpene. 

Oil  of  Anise  is  used  medicinally  as  an  aromatic  carminative  and 
stimulant,  and  also  for  imparting  flavor  to  liquors. 

Oil  of  Bay,  see  Oil  of  Myrcia. 

Oil  of  Bergamot.  Oleum  Bergamott*. 

(German:  Bergamott-Oel.) 

Obtained  by  expression  from  the  rind  of  the  fresh  fruit  of  Citrus 
Bergamia  Risso  et  Poiteau  (Nat.  Ord.  Butacece). 

"  A  greenish  or  greenish -yellow  liquid,  having  a  peculiar,  very 
fragrant  odor,  and  an  aromatic,  bitter  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.880  to 
0.885"  (0.883  to  0.886,  Schimniel  &  Co.).  "Its  optical  rotation  should 
not  be  more  than  20  to  the  right  in  a  100  Mm.  tube."  The  rotation 
of  a  pure  oil  usually  varies  from  +9"  to  +15°.  (See  Schimmel  & 
Co.'s    Bericht,   April,    1893,    p.    19,  and  April,    1894,    p.    21.)      "It    is 


*  The  quotutiou  marks  in  the  te.vt  of  the  official  essential  oils  antl  chemi- 
cals denote  the  portions  abstractetl  from  the  text  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 


8  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

soluble  at  20^  C.  iu  l.o  to  2  volumes  of  alcohol  of  80  per  cent,  by 
voliune.  If  about  2  granuues  of  the  oil  be  evaporated  in  a  cap- 
sule, on  a  water  bath,  until  the  odor  has  completely  disappeared,  a 
soft,  green,  homogeneous  residue  should  be  left,  aTuounting  to  not 
more  than  about  6  per  cent,  of  the  oil  (absence  of  fatty  oils)."  The 
oil  contains  linionene,  dipentene,  linalool  and  linaloyl  acetate,  the 
latter  in  amounts  of  about  36  to  39  per  cent. 

The  substance  deposited  from  freshly  expressed  Oil  of  Bergamot 
is  termed  bergapten.     It  forms  colorless,  needle-shaped  crystals,  of  the 

compositionCi.Hf  Oj,  or  Cii  H^02<J,Q  which  fuse  at  188^  C.  It  is  the 
lactone  or  inner  anhydride  of  bergaptenic  acid  Cu  H»Oo«<qqoh  ^5" 
fusion  with  potassium  hydroxide  it  affords  phloroglucin  Cg  H3  (OH),. 
{Momitsheffe  fiir  Chemie,  1891,  p.  379,  and  1893,  p.  28.) 

The  value  of  Oil  of  Bergamot  depends  chiefly  on  the  amount  of 
linaloyl  acetate  which  it  contains,  and  this  may  be  determined  by  the 
method  described  under  Oil  of  Lavender  Flowers. 

Oil  of  Bergamot  is  used  chieflj-  in  perfumeiy,  for  perfuming 
soaps,  etc. 

Oil  of  Betiila.  Oleum  Betiilse  Tolatile. 

[Oil  of  Sweet  Birch.] 

(German :  Birkenrinden-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Betnla  lenta  Linne,  the  so-called  Sweet 
Birch,  Cherry  Birch  or  Black  Birch  (Nat.  Ord.  Ciqmlifeixe). 

A  colorless  or  yellowish  liquid,  having  a  characteristic,  strongly 
aromatic  odor  and  taste,  closely'  resembling  that  of  gaultheria  or  win- 
tergreen.  Specific  gravity  1.180  to  1.185.  It  is  optically  inactive,  and 
practically  identical  with  methyl  salicylate.  The  crude  oil  appears  to 
contain  traces  of  an  undetermined  substance,  which  imparts  to  it  an 
odor  slightly  different  from  perfectly  pure  methyl  salicylate.  (See  Oil 
of  Wintergrecn,  Synthetic;  also  Oil  of  Gaultheria.) 

Tlie  Oil  of  Betula  or  Sweet  Birch  represents  the  chief  portion  of 
the  so-called  Natural  Oil  of  Wintergreen  of  commerce.  It  is  some- 
times advdterated  with  petroleum  and  other  substances,  "which,  iu 
connection  with  the  above  described  characters,  may  readily  be 
detected  by  the  official  tests  mentioned  imder  Oil  of  Wintergi'een, 
Synthetic. 

Oil  of  Betula  is  used  chiefly  as  a  flavoring  agent. 

Oil  of  Bitter  Aliiioud.  Oleiiiii  Ainyirdalje  Amarje. 

{German:  Hittor-Mandcl-Ocl.) 

Obtained  from  Bitter  Almond,  the  seed  of  Prunus  Amygclalns 
var.  amara  De  CaudoUe  (Nat.  Ord.  Rosacea:),  by  maceration  with 
water,  and  subsequent  distillation. 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  9 

"A  clear,  colorless  or  yellowish,  thin  and  strongly  refractive 
liquid,  having  a  characteristic,  aromatic  odor,  and  a  bitter  and  burn- 
ing taste.  Specific  gravity  1.060  to  1.070  (1.045  to  1.060,  Schimniel  & 
Co.).  Boiling  point  about  180°  C.  It  is  optically  inactive. "  It  consists 
of  benzaldehyde  C,-,  H5 — COH,  and  hydrocyanic  acid  HCN.  By  ex- 
posure to  the  air  the  benzaldehyde  becomes  oxidized  to  benzoic  acid, 
and  this  change  takes  place  more  quickly  when  the  oil  has  been 
deprived  of  its  hydrocyanic  acid. 

Oil  of  Bitter  Almond,  when  its  distillation  has  been  propei'ly 
conducted,  contains  on  an  average  from  1.5  to  4  per  cent,  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid.  A  higher  specific  gravity  than  that  recognized  by  the 
Pharmacopoeia  would  indicate  an  excessive  and  even  dangerous 
amount  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  Thus,  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  {Bericht, 
April,  1893,  p.  41)  have  met  with  oils  having  the  following  remark- 
ably high  specific  gravities  and  percentages  of  hydrocyanic  acid  ; 

Specific  gravity 1.086  1.088  1.088  1.093  1.096 

HCN 8.917^         8.38^  9.85^         10.07^         11.37^ 

while    normal    oils    of    their    own    distillation    had    the    following 
characters : 

Specific  gravity 1.053  1.053  1.054  1.058 

HCN 1.68^  l.m%  3.74^  l.^W. 

Benzaldehyde  combines  with  hydrocyanic  acid  to  form  the  cyan- 
hydrin,  or  the  nitrile  of  mandelic  acid  C„  H5 — CH  (OH)— CN,  a  body 
having  a  specific  gravity  of  1.134,  and  which  is  therefore  contained 
in  the  oil  of  bitter  almond.     (See  Bericht,  loc.  cit.) 

For  the  detection  of  artificial  oil  containing  chlorinated  prodjicts, 
as  also  adulterations  with  other  volatile  oils  or  nitrobenzol,  reference 
may  be  made  to  the  tests  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 

Another  test  for  the  detection  of  artificial  oil,  which  commends 
itself  for  its  simplicity  and  rapidity  of  execution,  and  which  we  be- 
lieve to  be  perfectly  reliable,  if  carefully  conducted,  is  as  follows:  A 
piece  of  strong,  clean  copper  wire,  with  a  looped  end,  is  held  in  a 
non-luminous  flame,  such  as  that  of  the  ordinary  Buusen  burner  or 
alcohol  lamp,  until  no  color  is  imparted  to  the  flame,  and  then  per- 
mitted to  cool.  A  drop  or  two  of  the  oil  to  be  tested  is  then  allowed 
to  fall  on  the  looped  end  of  the  wire,  avoiding  any  contact  of  the 
latter  with  the  fingers,  and  the  oil  subsequently  ignited  and  left  to 
burn  outside  of  the  flame.  The  looped  end  of  the  wire  is  now  slowly 
brought  in  contact  with  the  lower  outer  edge  of  the  flame.  If  the 
oil  is  artificial  it  will  at  once  impart  a  distinct,  but  quite  transient, 
green  tinge  to  the  flame,  caused  by  the  vapor  of  the  chloride  of  cop- 
per formed,  while  a  pure  natural  oil  will  |)roduce  at  the  most  but  a 
slight  3'ellow  color. 


10  OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

The  medicinal  action  of  oil  of  bitter  alnioud  is  similar  to  that  of 
hydrocN'anic  acid,  aud  it  is  given  in  dt)ses  of  from  one-fourth  to  one 
drop.  It  is  also  used  to  impart  its  peculiar  flavor  to  various  mixtures. 
Great  care  should  be  exercised  in  its  use,  as  when  taken  in  any  con 
siderable  amount  it  acts  as  a  powerful  poison,  and  even  the  oil  de- 
prived of  hydrocyanic  acid  has  a  marked  physiological  action,  espe- 
cially on  the  nervous  system. 

Oil  of  Cade.  Oleum  Cadlinini. 

(Oerman:  Kade-Oel  or  Raili-Oc-1.)     [Oleum  Juniperi  i;mi)yreumaticuni.] 
A  product  of  the  dry  distillation  of  the  wood  of  Juniperutt  oa-ij- 
cednis  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Coniferce). 

"A  brownish  or  dark  brown,  clear,  thick  liquid,  having  a  tarry 
odor,  and  an  empyreumatic,  burning  taste.  Sjiecific  gravity  about 
0.990."  The  oil  contain.s  phenols,  and  a  sesquiterpene  termed  cadinene 
CoH...^,  the  latter  boiling  at  274  to  275°  C.  (Liebig's  Annulen,  238, 
p.  82). 

Oil  of  Cade  is  used  externally  in  cutaneous  affections. 

Oil  of  Cajuput.  Oleum  Cajuputi. 

(GcniMH :  Cajfpiit-Ot'l.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Melaleuca  Leneadendrou  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Jlyrtace(e). 

"A  thin,  bluish-green,  or,  after  rectification,  colorless  liquid, 
having  a  jieculiar,  agreeable,  distinctly  camphoraceous  odor,  aud  an 
aromatic,  bitterish  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.922  to  0.929 '"  (0.920  to  0.980> 
Scliimmel  &  Co.).  It  deviates  polarized  light  slightly  to  the  left.  The 
oil  contains  cineol,  terpineol,  and  one  or  more  terjjenes.  The  green 
color  of  the  oil  is  usually  due  to  ti'aces  of  copper. 

Oil  of  Cajuput  is  used  medicinally,  internally  as  a  stimulant,  dia- 
phoretic and  vermifuge,  and  externally  as  a  local  stimulant  and 
rubefacient. 

Oil  of  Caraway.  Oleum  Cari. 

(Gennaii :  Kiiiiunol-Oel.) 

Distilled  froni  the  fruit  of  Cariun  Carvi  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Uinhclli- 
fercc). 

"A  colorless  or  pale  yellow,  thin  liquid,  having  the  characteristic 
aromatic  odor  of  caraway,  and  a  mild,  spicy  taste.  Specific  gravity 
0.910  to  0.920"  (0.905  to  0.915,  Scliimmel  &  Co.).  Optical  rotation 
-|-75°  to  -|-85°.  It  contains  dextrogyrate  limonene  (formerly  known  as 
carvene)  and  dextrogyrate  carvol,  both  of  which  are  more  fully  de- 
scribed under  Chemical  Preparatioiih,  Part  III. 

Oil  of  Caraway  is  used  medicinally  as  an  aromatic  stimulant  and 
carminative,  and  also  to  impart  llavor  to  licjuors  and  other  mixtin-es. 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  11 

Oil  of  Cassia,  see  Oil  of  Ciiniaiiioii. 

Oil  of  Clieiiopotlium.  Oleum  Chenopodii. 

[Oil  of  American  WonuswMi.] 

(German :  Chcnopodivira-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Chenopodiiun  ambrosioidc-s  Linue,  var. 
anthelminticum  Gray  (Nat.  Ord.  Clienopodiacea'). 

"  A  colorless  or  yellowish  liquid,  haviug  a  characteristic,  penetrat- 
ing odor,  and  a  pungent  and  bitterish  taste.  Specific  gravity  about 
0.970."  Tlie  characters  of  this  oil  are  subject  to  considerable  variation, 
which  appear  to  depend  chiefly  upon  its  age.  Thus  commercial  oils 
from  reliable  sources  we  have  found  to  have  the  specific  gravity  0.970, 
optical  rotation  — 5°  35'  to  — 6°  20',  and  to  form  a  clear  solution  with 
ten  times  their  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol,  while  an  oil  distilled  in 
our  Garfield  factory  has,  in  its  fresh  state,  a  specific  gravity  of  0.910, 
an  optical  rotation  of  — 18°  55',  and  does  not  form  a  perfectly  clear 
solution  with  ten  times  its  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol.  The  oil  is 
stated  to  consist  of  ahydrocarbon  CioHui,  and  a  body  of  the  composition 
CioHif, O  {Amer.  Jonrn.  Pharm.,  xxvi,  p.  405),  but  is  deserving  of 
more  thorough   examination. 

Oil  of  Chenopodium  is  used  chiefly  as  an  anthelmintic. 

Oil  of  Clienopodium  Leaves,  which  is  not  ofiicial,  has  also  been 
distilled  in  our  Garfield  factory.  It  has  a  yellowish  color  and  an  odor 
strongly  resembling  the  oil  from  the  frviit.  The  freshly  distilled  oil  has  a 
specific  gravity  of  0.879,  and  an  optical  rotation  of  — 33°  55'.  It  is 
insoluble  in  70  per  cent,  alcohol. 

Oil  of  Ciunamoii.  Oleum  Ciunamoml. 

[Oil  of  Cassia.] 

(German:  Cassia-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  undetermined  species  of  Cinnamomum  (Nat.  Ord. 
Laurinea'),  grown  in  China. 

"A  yellowish  or  brownish  liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by 
age  and  exposure  to  the  air,  liaviug  the  cliaracteristic  odor  of  cinnamon, 
and  a  sweetish,  spicy  and  burning  taste.  Specific  gravity  1.055  to 
1.065."  It  consists  chiefly  of  cinnamic  aldehyde  Ch  H; — COH,  witli 
some  cinnamyl  acetate  C^  Hu — C2  H3  O2. 

The  official  or  commercial  Oil  of  Cassia  appears  to  be  obtained 
chiefly  from  the  leaves,  or  from  the  latter  mixed  with  leaf  stems  and 
young  twigs.  (See  Schimmel  &  Co. 's  Bericht,  October,  1893,  p.  13.)  It 
was  formerly  much  adulterated  with  resin,  j)etroleum,  fatty  oils,  etc. , 
which  may  be  detected  by  the  tests  given  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 
The  best  criterion  of  the  value  of  tlie  oil  is  the  determination  of  the 
amount  of  cinnamic  aldehyde,  wliich  should  not  be  less  than  75  per 


l-'i  OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

ceut.  This  can  he  accomplished  l:)y  hriugiug  10  Cc.  of  the  oil,  lueasureil 
by  a  ]jiijette,  iuto  a  glass  flask  having  a  capacity  of  about  100  Cc. ,  and 
provided  with  a  narrow  neck  about  13  Cm.  long  and  8  Mm.  inside 
dianieter,  which  is  graduated  in  tenths  of  a  cubic  centimeter.  A 
small  amount  of  solution  of  sodium  bisulphite,  containing  about  30  per 
cent,  of  the  salt,  is  then  added  to  the  oil,  and  the  mixture  agitated, 
when  a  semi-solid  mass  will  be  formed.  The  flask  is  now  placed  in  a 
bath  of  boiling  water,  and,  when  tha  mixture  is  completely  liquefied,  a 
further  amount  of  the  bisulphite  solution  is  added  until  the  flask  is 
about  three-fourths  full.  The  mixture  is  again  heated  in  the  water 
bath,  with  frequent  agitation,  until  all  the  solid  particles  have  become 
dissolved,  and  there  is  obtained  a  clear,  oily  liquid  floating  on  the 
surface  of  the  aqueous  solution.  Finally,  so  much  bisulphite  solution 
is  added  that  the  oily  layer,  which  represents  the  non-aldehyde  bodies, 
will  rise  completely  m  the  upper  part  of  the  neck  of  the  flask.  After 
cooling,  the  volume  of  the  non-aldehj'des  is  deducted  from  the  10  Cc. 
of  oil  originally  used,  and  the  remainder,  when  multiplied  by  10,  will 
indicate  the  pei'centage  amount  (by  volume)  of  cinnamic  aldehyde  con- 
tained in  the  oil. 

Oil  of  Cinnamon  is  used  chiefly  for  imparting  its  agreeable  flavor 
to  other  mixtures,  and  for  perfuming  ordinary  soaps,  etc. 

In  order  to  determine  the  character  of  the  oils  afforded  by  dif- 
ferent parts  of  the  plant  yielding  Cassia  Cinnamon,  Messrs.  Schimmel 
&  Co.  have  distilled  from  authentic  crude  material  the  following 
products.     (See  Bericht,  October,   1892,  p.   13): 

Oil  of  Cassia  Bark. 

Specific  gravity  l.n:}.").  Contains  88.9  per  cent,  of  cinnamic 
aldehyde. 

Oil  of  Cassia  Buds. 

Specific  gravity  1.026.  Contains  80.4  per  cent,  of  cinnamic 
aldehyde. 

Oil  of  Cassia  Bud  Stems. 

Specific  gravity  1.040.  Contains  92  per  cent,  of  cinnamic  alde- 
hj'de. 

Oil   of  Cassia  Leaves   (witli  leaf  stems  and  young  twigs). 

Specific  gravity  LO").").  Contains  93  per  cent,  of  cinnamic  alde- 
hyde. 

The  above  figures  represent  the  results  of  single  distillations,  and 
in  a  more  extended  series  of  observations  some  variations  would 
doubtless  be  found.     (See  Berivht,  April.  1894,  p.  13.) 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  13 

The  following  non-official,  but  closely  related  cinnamon  oils,  may 
also  conveniently  be  considered  here; 

Oil  of  Cinnaiiioii,  Ceylon. 

(German:  Ceylon  Zimmt-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Cinnamomuvi  Zeylanicum  Breyn  (Nat. 
Ord.  Laurinece).  A  pale  yellow  liquid,  having  the  characteristic 
odor  of  cinnamon,  and  a  sweetish,  burning,  and  spicy  taste.  Specific 
gravity  1.025  to  l.OB.").  It  consists  chiefly  of  cinnamic  aldehyde,  with 
some  eiigenol  and  phellandrene. 

The  bark  of  Cinnamonmm  Wiglitii  Meissn.,  of  Northern  India, 
yields  a  highly  aromatic  oil,  having  a  specific  gravity  of  1.01,  and 
boiling  between  130°  and  170°  C. 

Oil  of  Ciiuiamoii  Leaves. 

(Gcrmati :  Zimmtblatter-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Cinnamonmm  Zeylanicum  Breyn  (Nat. 
Ord.  Laurinece).  A  pale  yellow,  limpid  liquid,  having  a  combined 
cinnamon  and  clove-like  odor.  Specific  gravity  1.044  to  1.060.  It 
contains  cinnamic  aldehyde,  eugenol,  and  safrol. 

Oil  of  Ciuuamoii  Root. 

(German:  Zimmtwurzel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  the  root  of  Cinnamonium  Zeylanicum 
Breyn  (Nat.  Ord.  Laurinece). 

A  nearly  colorless  liquid,  having  a  remarkably  strong  odor  of 
common  camphor,  which  partially  separates  from  the  oil  at  ordinary 
temperatures. 

Oil  of  Cloves.  Oleum  Caryopliylli. 

(German:  Nelken-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  cloves,  the  unexpanded  flowers  of  Eugenia  aromatica 
(Linne)  O.  Kuntze  (Nat.  Ord.  Myrtacece). 

"A  pale  yellow,  thin  liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by  age 
and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  a  strongly  aromatic  odor  of  cloves,  and 
a  pungent  and  spicy  taste.  Specific  gravity  1.060  to  1  067"  (1.060  to 
1.070,  Schimmel  &  Co.l.  It  deviates  polarized  light  slightly  to  the 
left.  It  boils  between  250°  and  260°  C,  the  greater  part  distilling  over 
between  250°  and  251°  C.  "1  Cc.  of  the  oU  should  form  a  clear  solution 
with  2  Cc.  of  a  mixture  of  2  volumes  of  alcohol  and  1  volume  of  water 
(absence  of  petroleum,  most  fatty  oils,  oil  of  turpentine,  etc.)."  The 
oil  contains  eugenol,  about  80  to  90  per  cent,  (see  the  latter,  under 
Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III),  and  a  sesquiterpene  CisHaj,  termed 
caiyophyllene,  which  boUs  at  about  255°  C.  (Liebig's  Annalen,  271, 
p.  285). 


U  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

For  tlie  estimation  of  eugenol  in  the  form  of  its  benzoyl  compound, 
see  Pliann.  Centralhalle,  1891,  p.  GS'J;  also  Amer.  Journ.  Pharin.,  1893, 
p.  2G,  and  Schimmel  &  Co.s  Berkht,  April,  1892,  p.  28. 

Oil  of  Cloves  is  a  powerful  aromatic,  and  also  possesses  antiseptic 
proijerties.  It  is  used  medicinally,  both  internallj'  and  externally, 
esjpecially  to  allay  the  pain  of  carious  teeth,  and  also  for  imparting 
its  peculiar  flavor  to  other  mixtures. 

Oil  of  Clove  Steins  has  a  specific  gravity  of  1.055  to  1.065.  It 
may  be  distinguished  by  its  odor,  which  is  not  so  fine  as  that  of  true 
Oil  of  Cloves. 

Oil  of  Copaiba.  Oleum  Copaibii'. 

(German :  Copaivabalsam-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Copaiba,  or  the  so-called  Balsam  of  Copaiba,  the 
oleoresin  of  Copaiba  Langsdorffil  (Desfontaines)  O.  Kuntze,  and  of 
other  species  of  Copaiba  (Nat.  Ord.  Leguminosie). 

' '  A  colorless  or  pale  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  characteristic  odor 
of  copaiba,  and  an  aromatic,  bitterish  and  pungent  taste.  Specific 
gi-avity  0.890  to  0.910"  (0.900  to  0.910,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  It  deviates 
polarized  light  to  the  left;  an  oil  distilled  in  our  Gai"field  factory 
showing  an  optical  rotation  of  — 8°  6 .  The  oil  consists  chiefly  of 
caryophyllene  Ci5H-24. 

Oil  of  Copaiba  is  considered  to  have  the  same  effects  on  the  system 
as  Copaiba. 

Oil  of  Coriander.  Oleum  Coriaudri. 

(German:  Coriander-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Coriaitdruiii  safivniii  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Umbellifeirc). 

"A  colorless  or  slightly  yellowish  liquid,  liuviug  Uie  characteristic, 
aromatic  odor  of  coriander,  and  a  warm,  spicy  taste.  Specific  gravity 
0.870  to  0.885"  (0.874  to  0.882,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  Optical  rotation  +4° 
to  -[-13°  "  1  Cc.  of  the  oil  should  form  a  clear  solution  with  3  Cc. 
of  a  mixture  of  3  volumes  of  alcohol  and  1  volume  of  water."  This 
test  will  serve  to  detect  adulterations  with  oil  of  sweet  orange  peel, 
oil  of  tmpentine,  etc.  The  oil  contains  linalool  (formerly  termed 
coriandroT)  and  pineue. 

Oil  of  Coriander  is  aromatic  and  carminative,  and  is  often  used 
to  correct  the  odor  and  taste  of  other  mixtures. 

Oil  of  Cubeb.  Oleum  Cubebte. 

(German :  Cubebcn-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  unripe  fruit  of  Piper  Cubeba  Linne  filius  i  Nat. 
Ord.  Piperacece). 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS.  15 

"  A  colorless,  pale  greenish  or  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  char- 
acteristic odor  of  cubeb,  and  a  warm,  caniphoraceous,  aromatic  taste. 
Specific  gravity  about  0.920"  (0.910  to  0.930,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  The  oil 
consists  chiefly  of  cadinene  C15HJ4,  with  some  dipentene,  and,  when 
old,  or  distilled  from  old  fruit,  contains  cubeb  camphor  C15H24.  Ho  O. 

Oil  of  Cubeb  possesses  the  aromatic  proi)erty  of  the  fruit,  and 
when  taken  internally  .produces  symptoms  similar  to  oil  of  copaiba. 

Oil  of  Erigerou.  Oleum  Erigerontis. 

[Oil  of  Fleabane.] 

(German:  Erigeron-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh,  flowering  herb  of  Erigeron  canade71.se 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Composite^). 

"  A  pale  yellow,  limpid  liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by  age 
and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  a  peculiar,  aromatic,  ]jersistent  odor, 
and  an  aromatic,  slightly  pungent  taste.  Specific  gravity  about  0.850, 
increasing  with  age"  (0.855  to  0.890,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  The  larger 
jmrt  of  the  oil  distills  between  175°  and  180°  C.  It  consists  chiefly 
of  dextrogyrate  limonene,  together  with  a  substance  wliich  readily 
becomes  decomposed  or  polymerized  by  the  action  of  heat,  and  which 
can  therefore  not  be  distilled  under  ordinary  pressure.  (See  Ber.  d. 
deidsch.  chem.  Ges.,  15,  1882,  p.  2854  ;  Amer.  Journ.  Pharm.,  1883, 
p.  372  ;  Liebig's  Anualen,  227,  p.  292  ;  Pharm.  Rundschau,  1887,  p.  201 ; 
and  Proc.  Wis.  Pharm.  Assoc,  1893,  p.  65.) 

Oil  of  Erigeron  has  been  employed  medicinally  for  controlling 
uterine  hemorrhage,  and  is  supposed  to  act  very  much  like  the  oil 
of  turpentine,  although  much  less  irritant  and  stinfulating. 

Oil  of  Eucalyptus.  Oleum  Eucalypti. 

(German :  Eucalyptus-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  leaves  of  Eucalyptus  globidus  Labillardiere, 
Eucalyptus  oleosa  F.  von  Mueller,  and  some  other  species  of  Euca- 
lyptus (Nat.  Ord.  Myrtacece). 

"  A  coloi-less  or  faintly  yellowish  liquid,  having  a  characteristic, 
aromatic,  somewhat  camphoraceous  odor,  and  a  pungent,  spicy  and 
cooling  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.915  to  0.925.  If  1  Cc.  of  the  oil  be 
mixed  with  2  Cc.  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  1  or  2  Cc.  of  a  saturated, 
aqueous  solution  of  sodium  nitrite  be  gradually  added,  the  mixture, 
when  gently  stirred,  should  n()t  form  a  crj'stalline  mass  (distinction 
from  oils  of  Eucalyptus  containing  a  considerable  proportion  of 
phellandrenej."  The  test  for  phellandrene  is  rendered  somewhat  more 
delicate  by  the  following  method  of  procedure:  1  Cc.  of  the  oil  is 
mixed  with  5  Cc.  of  petroleum  benziu,  1  or  2  Cc.  of  a  concentrated 
solution  of  sodium  nitrite  added,  and  subsequently  glacial  acetic  acid 


^^'  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

additi;n^  ''ifllZllZetl^''^^^^  ^f^^tion  after  each 

crvstaUine  nitrite,  Co  H.eN,0^n  ^°>' ^o^^iflerable  amount  its 

on  of  EucalUsM^^^^^^^^  "^'^^^^^  ^--  ^^-  ^-in  solution. 

andeontaLcined(euc^^^^^^^^  '-'-'^-- of  ^1^  to  ^2CP 

of  valeric,  butyric  andt^i  aShX'^  "^^^°^'  ^^'  ^^^^  ---t^ 

eonta:;;st;tS::nTe;:^^  ^^^  -  ^^^-^  --^^^  ^^  -^o .  _,, ,,, 

due  t^r  :;::::^^L^-^-^Ptie  properties.  .Heh  .. 

medicinally  in  asthmadc  and  bronchTaia^      •""''''•   '"^^    "'"  ^^^«  "^^^ 
under  Chenncal  Preparations,  PaTt III  ^      ^^'^""^-    *'^-  ^^so  Eucalyptol, 

In  connection  with  the  ahn^-A  ti.^  e  n      ■ 
have  either  been  distinlro     e.amL^^^^^ 
possess  considerable  interest:       ^'^'''''^  '^-^'  '^^^^s^s.  Schimniel  &  Co., 

Oil  of  Backhausia  cifnorTom     TTo«  „  i 
Specjflc  g.a.it,  0.900.     Boi,.  ^J^^^ZXr'^^"^^'^''^  o.or. 
i^in-ai.  ^    -JO     L.     It  contains 

Oi/   o/  Eucalyptus  amyadalina       Sr>^.,-f: 
Optical  rotation  -27°  to  --68°    ^-i  ^"^  ^'"^""^^^^  <^-860  to  0.890 

contains  phellandrene  and  cineol.  ""^   '''°  ^^  ^^0°  C-     It 

0/Z  0/  Eucalyptus  Bayleyana      fin^nift^ 

.".en  leo.  .  J,,  c.  ,■;  citai^tr, -rur  '"''^  •-- 

ina^."^  ^"""'^'-  '""•*™-    Speoifle  ^..,,,TZ,    ^^,^^,^ 

O/Z  o/  Eucahjpdus  dealhata      TT^^       « 
gravity  0.885  from  fre.sh    and  'o  Sf?  J^^^^^^a-like  odor.     Specific 

206°  and  216°  C.  '  ^""^"^  ^^^•^^'  ^^^ves.     Boils  between 

^p  "^f  Encahjptus  Hcemastoma      Ha^=,n^i 
oil.     Specific  gravity  0.890.     Boils  bett  .-?'' '■'^""'''^^»  ^^  ^"m^n 

tains  c,,„o,e.„..  aMe.,.e,  ^ f  ^l.^  .::lr  ^"°  '     "  ~- 

OiZ  0/  Eucalypttis  macidata.     Has  a    n^.i-       r, 
gra^ty  0.900.     Boils  between  210°  and  oooo'^  ^^^"^^^^  ^^^r.     Specific 
t-.oH,eO,  and  possibly  geraniol  —'^  ^.     -it  contains  citronellal 

Boils  between  209°  and   2^0°  C      Tf         .  Slightly    dextrogvrate. 

C,oH,.0,  and  geraniol  C.oH./o.  °'  citronellal   (citi-onellone) 

0/7  of  Eucalyptus  microcorv^      q       -^ 
t-.een  ,60"  and  2^-  c.     ItrSn,  cCf  '■""■•■^"  "■'''■     ^^''^  "e- 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  17 

Oil  of  Eucalyptus  rostratct.  Specific  gravity  0.924.  Optical  rota- 
tion -(-12°  58'.     It  contains  cineol  and  valeric  aldehyde. 

Oil  of  Eucaljiptus  Staigeriana.  Has  a  lemon-like  odor.  Si)ecifie 
gravity  0.880.     Boils  between  223°  and  233°  C^.     It  contains  citral. 

Oil  of  Fennel.  Oleum  F(jeniculi. 

(Gcnnnn :  Fenchel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Fcenieuluia  (■apiUufcuuL  Ciilibert  (Nat. 
Ord.  Uuibelliferci'). 

"A  colorless  or  pale  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  characteristic, 
aromatic  odor  of  fennel,  and  a  sweetish,  mild  and  spicy  taste.  Specific 
gravity  not  less  than  0.960"  (usually  between  0.965  and  0.975,  Schimmel 
&  Co.).  Its  optical  rotation  varies  between -|- 7°  and  -[-22°.  "Between 
5°  and  10°  C.  it  usually  solidifies  to  a  crj-stalline  mass,  but  occasionally 
it  remains  liquid  at  a  cousiilerably  lower  temperature."  The  higher 
the  temperature  at  which  crystals  of  anethol  separate,  the  better  is  the 
quality  of  the  oil.  It  contains  pinene,  phellandrene,  dipentene, 
fenchone  Cio  Hio  O,  and  anethol  Cio  Hi^  O,  the  latter  usually  in  amounts 
of  about  60  per  cent.  (Compare  Oil  of  Anise.)  The  Oil  of  Fennel 
from  different  sources  never  contains  all  these  constituents  at  the  same 
time.  Some,  for  example,  contain  no  phellandrene,  others  no  fenchone, 
and  still  others  may  contain  no  anethol. 

The  medicinal  action  of  Oil  of  Fennel  is  similar  to  tliat  of  Oil  of 
Anise. 

Oil  of  Fleabane,  see  Oil  of  Erigeron. 

Oil  of  Gaultlieria.  Oleum  Gaultlieriae. 

[Oil  of  Wintergreen.] 

(German :  Wintergreeii-Oel.) 
Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Gaultlieria  p)rocumbens  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Ericacece),  known  also  as  CJieckerberri/,  Partridge-herry  or  Boxherry. 

' '  A  colorless  or  yellow,  or  occasionally  reddish  liquid,  having  a 
characteristic,  strongly  aromatic  odor,  and  a  sweetish,  warm  and 
aromatic  taste.  Specific  gravity  1.175  to  1.185.  Boiling  point  218°  to 
221° C.  It  deviates  polarized  light  slightly  to  the  left."  Oils  distilled 
in  our  Garfield  factory  we  have  found  to  vary  in  optical  rotation  from 
— 0°  22'  to  — 1°.  The  oil  consists  chiefly  of  methyl  salicylate,  with  a 
fraction  of  1  per  cent,  of  another  substance  which  has  a  peculiar  odor, 
a  viscid  consistence,  and  high  boiling  point,  and  which  is  decomposed 
by  distillation  under  ordinary  pressure.  The  composition  of  the  latter 
substance,  which  has  been  assumed  to  be  a  sesquiteijiene,  has  not  yet 
been  determined  with  sufficient  accuracy.  (See  Pharm.  Rundschau,  1889, 
p.  283;  1890,  p.  38;  also  Amer.  Jonrn.  Pharm.,  1889,  p.  398;   1890,  p.  9.) 


IS  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Although  Oil  of  Gaultheria  is  still  accorded  independent  recognition 
by  the  U.  S.  Pharniacopdna,  with  i>robable  deference  to  the  more  con- 
servative members  of  tlie  profession,  it  is,  nevertheless,  a  well  known 
and  recognized  fact  that  most  of  the  so-called  X(it)i)-<il  Oil  of  Wijiter- 
grcen  of  commerce  consists  of  the  closely  related  Oil  of  Sweet  Birch 
(see  Oil  of  Betnla),  and  tliat  both  of  these  natural  products  are  con- 
stantly becoming  more  and  more  displaced  by  a  pure,  synthetic  Methyl 
SaJicj/lafe  (see  Oil  of  Wintergveen,  Synthetic).  Under  the  latter  article 
will  be  found  tlie  important  official  tests  for  purity,  M-hich  are  equally 
ai)plicable  t:)  the  above  mentioned  natural  oils. 

Oil  of  Hedeoiiia.  Oleum  Hedeoiiia'. 

[Oil  of  Aiiiericaii  Pennyroyal.] 

(German:  Poley-Oel,  Amerikanisches.) 

Distilled  fi'om  the  leaves  and  tops  of  Hedeoma  2>iile(jioi(lefi  (Lvane) 
Persoon  (Nat.  Ord.  Lahiatie). 

"  A  pale  yellowish,  limpid  liquid,  having  a  characteristic,  pungent, 
mint-like  odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.930  to  0.940."  An  oil 
distilled  and  rectified  in  our  Garfield  factory  shows  an  optical  rotation 
of  -|-18°  43  ,  and  a  commercial  oil  from  a  reliable  source  -|-21°  20'. 

The  oil  has  been  chemically  examined  by  E.  Kremers  (Proc.  Amei'. 
JPJuu-m.  Assoc,  1887,  pp.  546-561),  who  found,  after  saponification  ■with 
alcoholic  potassa,  an  alcohol  of  relativelj"  low  boiling  point,  two  bodies 
of  the  composition  C,oH..O,  boiling  at  168°  to  171°  C,  and  206°  to 
209°  C.  respectiveh',  together  with  formic,  acetic,  and  iso-heptoic  acids. 
The  bodies  CioHisO  were  subsequently  recognized  as  ketones,  the 
higher  boiling  one  being  apparently  menthone.  It  has  also  been  shown 
more  recentlj' that  the  oil  contains  pulegone  do  Hic  O,  and  considered 
that  the  ketones  previously  mentioned  represent  tlie  reduction  products 
of  the  latter.  {Phann.  Rundschau,  1891,  p.  130,  and  Proc.  Wis.  Pharm. 
Assoc,  1892.  p.  55;  1893,  p.  51.) 

An  important  test  for  the  purity  of  this  oil  is  its  property  of 
forming  a  clear  solution  with  twice  its  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcoliol. 

Oil  of  Iledeoma  has  the  properties  of  an  aromatic  stimulant,  car- 
minative and  emmenagogue.  (Compare  Oil  of  European  Pennj/royal, 
below.) 

The  following  non-ofhcial  oil,  on  account  of  its  relationsliip  with 
the  preceding,  may  appropriately  be  considei-ed  here: 

Oil  of  European  Pennyroyal. 

{GcDntoi :  Polcy-Oel.) 

Distilled  froni  the  herl)  of  Mcntlia  PuJegium  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Lahiato'). 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  19 

The  oil  has  a  yellowisli  or  j-ello\vish-green  color,  and  a  strongly 
aromatic,  mint-like  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.935  to  0.955.  02)tical 
rotation  -(-18°  to  -\-2S°.  The  chief  portion  of  the  oil  distills  between 
212°  and  216°  C,  and  contains  pulegone,  a  ketone  of  the  composition 
CioHisO.  The  latter  is  a  colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable  odor, 
reminding  somewhat  of  pei^permint,  boils  at  130°  to  131°  C.  under  a 
pressure  of  60  Mm.,  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.9333  at  20°  C,  and 
optical  rotation  of  -f-21°  16'.  (Liebig's  Annalen,  Bd.  262,  pp.  1-37,  and 
Bd.  277,  p.  160.) 

This  oil,  like  the  Oil  of  Hedeoma,  is  soluble  in  twice  its  volume  of 
alcohol  of  70  per  cent,  by  volume,  and  also  appears  to  possess  analogous 
medicinal  properties. 

Oil  of  Juniper.  Oleum  Juuiperi. 

(German :  Wachhold(!rbeer-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Juniper  us  commiuiis  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Coniferce). 

"  A  colorless  or  faintly  greenish-yellow  liquid,  becoming  darker 
and  thicker  by  age  and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  the  characteristic 
odor  of  juniper,  and  a  warm,  aromatic,  somewhat  terebinthinate  and 
bitterish  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.850  to  0.890  "  (0.865  to  0-885,  Schimmel 
&  Co.).  It  is  optically  either  dextrogyrate,  lajvogyrate  or  sometimes 
inactive.  It  consists  chiefly  of  pinene,  with  some  cadinene  C15H...1,  and 
an  undetermined  substance,  probably  an  ester,  to  which  the  peculiar 
juniper-like  odor  and  taste  are  due. 

Oil  of  Juniper  is  used  medicinally  as  a  stinuilant,  carminative  and 
diuretic,  but  is  chiefly  employed  in  the  j^reparation  of  certain  liquors.  • 

Oil  of  Juniper,  Empyreuniatic,  sec  Oil  of  Cade. 

Oil  of  Lavender  Flowers.     Oleum  Lavaudulve  Florum. 

(German :  Lavcndel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  flowers  of  Lavandula  officinalis  Chaix 
(Nat.  Ord.  Labiatce). 

"A  colorless  or  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  fragrant  odor  of 
lavender  flowers.  Specific  gravity  0.885  to  0.897"  (0.883  to  0.890, 
Schimmel  &  Co.).  Optical  rotation  — 5°  to  — 8°.  The  oil  contains 
linalool,  linaloyl  acetate,  geraniol,  and  a  very  small  amount  of  ciueol. 
The  presence  of  the  latter  in  any  considerable  amount  would  indicate 
a  contamination  with  the  Oil  of  Spike  Lavender  (see  below). 

The  oil  should  form  a  clear  solution  with  three  times  its  volume 
of  70  per  cent,  alcohol. 

The  value  of  Oil  of  Lavender  Flowers  depends  chiefly  upon  the 
amount  of  ester  or  linaloyl  acetate  which  it  contains,  and  wliich  should 


20  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

not  be  less  thau  30  to  -W  per  cent.  (See  Schiinmel  &  ("o.'s  BcricJif, 
April,  1893,  p.  36,  and  April,  1894,  p.  3G.)  This  estimation  may  be 
accomplished  by  the  following  method: 

(a)  Determination  of  the  Enter  in  Oil  of  Lavender  Flotcers. 

About  5  grammes  of  the  oil  are  accurately  weighed  in  a  strong 
glass  bottle  having  a  capacity  of  about  100  Cc,  then  25  Cc.  of  alcoiiolic 
normal  solution  of  sodium  hydrate  added,  the  bottle  tightly  corked, 
and  allowed  to  stand  for  an  hour  in  a  batii  of  boiling  water.  After 
cooling,  the  free  alkali  is  titrated,  in  the  same  bottle,  with  normal 
sulphuric  acid,  with  the  use  of  phenol-phtalein  as  an  indicator.  The 
number  of  cubic  centimeters  of  alkali  required  for  the  saponification 
of  the  oil,  when  multiplied  by  the  decimal  0.196,  will  indicate  the 
amount  of  ester,  calculated  as  linaloyl  acetate  Cio  Hi7-C-.  Ha  Oj,  con- 
tained in  the  weight  of  oil  employed. 

(6)  Determination  of  the  free  Linalool  in  Oil  of  Lavender  Flou-ers. 

Into  a  long-necked  flask,  or  one  provided  with  a  long  glass  tube, 
one  end  of  which  is  so  expanded  and  ground  as  to  form  a  tightly 
fitting  stopper  for  the  flask,  are  brought  about  10  Cc.  of  the  oil,  to- 
gether with  10  Cc.  of  acetic  anhydride  and  3  grammes  of  fused  sodium 
acetate,  and  the  mixtiu-e  kept  in  a  state  of  gentle  ebvillition  for  two 
hours.  After  cooling,  the  mixture  is  shaken  with  100  Cc.  of  water,  and 
the  separated  oil  washed  by  agitation  with  a  5  i^er  cent,  solution  of 
sodium  hydrate,  being  careful,  by  the  gradual  addition  of  the  latter,  to 
avoid  any  considerable  elevation  of  temperature.  This  washing  is  con- 
tinued until,  even  after  agitating  the  liquid  for  some  time,  it  still 
retains  a  slightly  alkaline  reaction.  The  oil  is  subsequent!}^  washed 
with  several  successive  portions  of  pure  water,  and,  after  sejDaration,  it 
is  dried  by  contact  with  calcium  chloride,  and  filtered. 

Of  this  etherified  oU,  containing  the  linalool  in  the  form  of  its 
acetic  ester,  about  5  grammes  are  accurately  weighed,  saponified,  and 
titrated  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  described  under  (o).  The 
amount  of  free  linalool  which  may  be  calculated  from  the  difference 
between  the  ester  determinations  (a)  and  (6)  does  not  accurately  rep- 
resent the  amount  actually  contained  in  the  oil,  the  latter  being  con- 
siderably greater,  but  the  results,  nevertheless,  form  a  valuable  basis 
for  comparison. 

Oil  of  Lavender  Flowers  is  used  chiefly  for  its  agreeable  perfume. 

The  following  non-ofiicial  Oils  of  Lavender  maj-  appropriately  be 
considered  here: 

Oil  of  Lavandula  dentata  Linne.  Has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.926, 
and  distills  almost  completely  between  170°  and  200°  C. 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  21 

Oil  of  Lavandula  Stoechas  Linne.  Has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.942, 
and  distills  between  1S0°  and  24o°  C.  Botli  of  these  oils  have  an  odor 
reminding  of  rosemary  and  camphor,  and  contain  ciueol. 

Oil  of  Lavender,  Spike. 

{German:  Spick-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  the  flowering  herb  of  Lavandula  sjnca  D.  C.  (Nat. 
Ord.  Labial ce). 

This  oil  is  much  less  fragrant  than  the  official  Oil  of  Lavender 
Flowers,  having  an  odor  reminding  of  both  rosemary  and  lavender, 
and  it  also  differs  in  composition  from  the  official  oil.  A  pure  oil 
should  have  the  following  characters:  Specific  gravity  0.905  to  0.920. 
Optical  rotation  0°  to  -f 3°.  It  should  form  at  20°  C.  a  clear  solution 
with  three  times  its  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol.  This  test  is  of 
special  importance  for  detecting  adulterations  with  oil  of  turpentine. 
The  oil  contains  piueue,  camphene,  ciueol,  linalool,  camphor,  borneol, 
and  possibly  terpineol  and  gerauiol.  (Compt.  rend.,  106,  p.  5.")!;  117, 
pp.  53,  1094.) 

It  is  used  chiefly  in  veterinary  medicine,  for  liniments,  etc. 

Oil  of  Lemon.  Olenni  Liniouis. 

(German :  Citronen-Oel.) 

Obtained  by  expression  fronx  fresh  Lemon  Peel,  the  rind  of  the 
recent  fruit  of  Citrus  Linionuin.  Risso  (Nat.   Ord.  Rutacea'). 

' '  A  pale  yellow,  limpid  liquid,  having  the  fragrant  odor  of  lemon, 
and  an  aromatic,  somewhat  l)itterish  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.858  to 
0.859  (0.857  to  0.860,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  Its  optical  rotation  should 
not  be  less  than  60  to  the  right  in  a  100  Mm.  tube."  The  rotation 
of  a   pure  oil   usually   varies   from   -(-60°   to  -|-64'-      (See  Schimmel 

6  Co.'s  Bericht,  April,  1893,  p.  22,  and  April,  1894,  p.  24.)  It 
contains  a  small  amount  of  pinene,  with  dextrogyrate  limonene,  about 

7  to  8  per  cent,  of  citral  (see  the  latter,  vmder  Chemical  Preparations, 
Part  III),  and  a  small  amount  of  citi'onellal  {Bev.  der  deutsch.  chem. 
Ges.,  27,  1894,  p.  354). 

The  determination  of  the  physical  constantH,  specific  gravity  and 
optical  rotation,  is  of  s^iecial  importance  for  establishing  the  purity 
of  this  oil. 

Oil  of  Lemon  is  used  chiefly  as  a  flavoring  agent  and  in  per- 
fumery. 

Oil  of  Mustard,  Tolatile.  Oleum  Sinapis  Tolatile. 

(German  :  Seuf-Oel.) 

Obtained  from  Black  Mustard,  the  seed  of  Brassica  ni(jni  (Linne) 
Koch  (Nat.  Ord.  Cruciferce),  by  maceration  with  water  and  subsequent 
distillation. 


22  UFP^ICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

"  A  colorless  or  pah'  yellow,  limpid  li(|Ui(l,  haviuj^;  a  very  pungent 
and  acrid  odor  and  taste.  Specific  giavity  1.018  to  1.029  (1.02  to  1.032, 
Schimmel  &  Co.).  Boiling  point  148°  to  150°  C."  Optically  inactive. 
It  consists  chiefly  of  allyl  isosulphocyanate  or  allyl  thiocarbimide 
C'S=N  (C;)  Ho),  with  traces  of  carbon  disulphide.  Its  purity  may 
readily  be  detei'niiued  b}'  the  above  mentioned  character's,  and  by  the 
other  more  extended  tests  described  in  the  L".  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  1890. 

Volatile  Oil  of  Mustard  is  used  chiefly  externally,  and  is  an  exceed- 
ingly p;)\verful  irritant  and  vesicant. 

Oil  of  Myrciii.  .  OliMim  ^lyrcisf. 

[Oil  of  Uay.] 

(German:  IJay-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Myrcia  acris  DC.  (Nat.  Ord.  Myrtacea'). 

"A  yellow  or  brownish-yellow  lic^uid,  having  an  aromatic,  some- 
what clove-like  odor,  and  a  pungent,  spicy  taste.  Specific  gravitj"" 
0.975  to  0.990."  The  characters  of  this  oil  vary  considerably,  and  this 
variation  api)eai's  to  depend  upon  the  season  of  the  year  in  which  the 
leaves  are  collected,  or  upon  the  age  of  the  latter.  From  the  results 
of  a  number  of  distillations  we  believe  the  specific  gi-avity  to  be  more 
correctly  included  within  the  limits  of  0.965  and  0.985,  being,  how- 
ever, only  exceptionally  as  low  as  0.905,  and  generall\'  ranging  between 
0.975  and  0.985.  Some  oils  of  our  own  distillation,  as  well  as  sami)les 
from  the  West  Indies,  yield  a  perfectly  clear  solution  with  an  equal 
volume  or  more  of  ofl^cial  alcohol,  and  this  appears  to  be  the  case 
when  distilled  from  relatively  fresh  leaves,  while  others,  sometimes 
even  of  higher  specific  gravity,  will  afi'ord  slightly  turbid  solutions. 

Our  experience  has  also  convinced  us  that  the  ofticial  empirical 
test  Avith  sulphuric  acid  and  dilute  alcohol,  as  projwsed  by  Mr.  Geo. 
M.  Beringer  (see  Amer.  Jouvn.  Pliarm.,  1888,  pp.  441-445)  for  the 
discrimination  or  detection  in  this  oil  of  the  oil  of  cloves  and  oil 
of  ])imenta,  is  totally  unreliable,  and  no  oil  should  be  regarded  as 
impure  which  fails  tu  conform  to  this  test,  if  it  has  otherwise  the 
proper  characters. 

The  oil,  according  to  ^l\ttn\iiwa{Archiv  dcr  Pharm.,  1889.  \)\).  529- 
548),  contains  terpenes,  a  considerable  amount  of  eugenol,  a  little  of  tiie 
methyl  ether  of  eugenol  C.  Ha  (OCHs)-  C3  H5,  and  apparently  a  diterpene 
Cjo  Haj.  A  further  investigation  of  this  oil  is  now  in  progress  in  our 
Garfield  laboratories. 

Oil  of  ]\Iyrcia  is  used  as  a  refresliing  perfume  or  lotion  in  the  form 
of  the  popular  P.ay  Rum  iSpirifHs  Myrcia\  U.  S.  P.),  or  for  perfuming 
soaps. 

Oil  of  Neroli,  see  Oil  of  Orange  Flowers. 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  23 

Oil  of  Nutmeg.  Oleum  Myristicae. 

{Gcrma)i :  Musksitnuss-Ocl .) 

Distilled  from  Nutmeg,  the  seed  of  ]\nji'istic<i  fr<t(jr(iiis  Houttiiyn 
(Nat.  Ord.  Mynsticacece),  deprived  of  its  testa. 

"A  thin,  colorless  or  pale  j^ellow  li(|uid,  becoming  darker  and 
thicker  by  age  and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  the  characteristic  odor 
of  nutmeg,  and  a  warm,  spicy  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.870  to  0. 900" 
(0.8G.")  to  0.920,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  It  consists  chiefly  of  pinene,  with 
probably  some  dipentene,  also  niyristicol  CioHioO  and  myristicin 
C^HmOs.     (Compare  Oil  of  Mace,  Part  II.) 

Oil  of  Nutmeg  is  au  aromatic  stimulant,  but  is  rarely  used 
medicinally. 

Oil  of  Orauge  Flowers.  Oleum  Aurautii  Florum. 

[Oil  of  Ncroli.] 

(Gei-man :  Orang-enljliithen-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  flowers  of  the  Bitter  Orauge,  Citrus  vul- 
garis Risso  (Nat.  Ord.  Rutac&ce). 

' '  A  yellowish  or  brownish,  thin  liquid,  having  a  very  fragrant 
odor  of  orange  flowers,  and  an  aromatic,  somewhat  bitter  taste. 
Specific  gravity  0.875  to  0.890."  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  have  ob- 
served commercial  oils  to  have  a  specific  gravity  of  0.875  to  0.885, 
and  an  optical  rotation  of  -(-5°  to  -)-10°.  Oils  of  their  own  distillation 
varied  in  specific  gravity  from  0.881  to  0.887.  The  oil  contains, 
according  to  Semmler  {Ber.  d.  dentsch.  cliem.  Ges.,  26,  p.  2711), 
about  20  per  cent,  of  limonene,  30  per  cent,  of  nerolol  (a  laevogyrate 
alcohol  of  the  composition  CioHigO,  and  closely  related  to  linalool), 
40  per  cent,  of  nerolyl  acetate  and  3  per  cent,  of  geraniol  CiuHisO, 

Oil  of  Orange  Flowers  is  used  chiefly  as  a  perfume. 

Oil  of  Orange  Peel.  Oleum  Aurautii  Corticis. 

(GcriiKtn :  Pomeranzen-Oel.) 

Obtained  by  expression  from  the  fresh  peel  of  either  the  Bitter 
Orange,  Citrus  vulgaris  Risso,  or  the  Sweet  Orange,  Citrus  Aurantium 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Rutacece). 

"A  pale  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  characteristic,  aromatic  odor 
of  orange,  and  an  aromatic  and,  when  obtained  from  the  bitter 
orange,  somewhat  bitter  taste.  Specific  gravity  about  0.850  (0.848  to 
0.854,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  Its  optical  rotation  should  not  be  less  than 
95°  to  the  right  in  a  100  Mm.  tube."  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  have 
observed  good  commercial  oils  to  vary  in  optical  rotation  from  about 
+96°  to  +99°.  (See  Bericht,  April,  1893,  p.  25,  and  April,  1894,  p.  26.) 
The   oils   from   the   bitter   and   the   sweet   orange    possess    the    same 


24  OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

spt'cilie  gravit}'  and  ()i)tii-al  rotation,  and  Ijoth  consist  chiefly  of 
linionene.  Oil  of  Sweet  Orange  Peel  also  contains,  according  to 
Seniniler  (Ber.  d.  deutsdi.  clicm.  Ges.,  24,  p.  202),  a  small  amount  of 
geranial  (citi'al)  and  a  lower  lioiling  aldehyde.  (See  also  Wallaeh, 
Liebig's  Aiiualeii,  Bd.  278,  p.  318.) 

Tlie  determination  of  the  above  mentioned  physical  constants  is 
of  special  impoi-tance  for  establishing  the  purity  of  this  oil. 

Small  amounts  of  oil  expressed  in  our  Garfield  factory  from 
Florida  oranges  showed  the  following  characters: 

Oil  from  "  Bittersweet  "  varietj-.  Specific  gravity  0.8.56.  Optical  rotation  +96°  25' 
Oil  from  "Sour"  variety.  "  "        0.85C.         "  "  -f94°  15' 

Oil  of  Orange  Peel  is  used  exclusively  as  a  flavoring  agent  and 
in  jjerfumeiy. 

The  following  oils,  related  to  the  preceding,  are  of  scientific 
interest,  and  their  pliysical  characters  are  therefore  briefly  noted: 

Oil  of  3Iaii(lariii  Orange. 

(Giriiutn :  Maiuiafineii-Oel.) 

Expressed  from  the  fresh  peel  of  Citrus  bigaradia  sinensis  Dich. 
Si)ecific  gravity  0.85  to  0.86.     Optical  rotation  about  +70°. 

It  contains  citral,  and  a  terpene,  which  is  probably  limonene. 

Oil  of  Grape  Fruit  or  Sliaddotk. 

The  botanical  source  of  this  fruit  is  the  Citrus  decumana  Linne. 
A  small  amoimt  of  the  oil,  from  fruit  grown  in  Florida,  has  been 
expressed  and  examined  in  our  Garfield  factory,  and  was  found  to 
liave  the  following  characters :  The  yield  of  oil  is  comparatively  small. 
It  has  a  pale  j-ellow  color,  and  an  exceedingly  fine  odor,  resembling 
quite  closely  that  of  the  bitter  orange.  Specific  gravity  0.865.  Optical 
rotation  +94°  30'.  (See  also  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericht,  April,  1894, 
p.  27.) 

Oil  of  Peimy royal,  see  Oil  of  Hedeoma. 

Oil  of  Peppermint.  Oleum  ^lentluv  Piperita'. 

{(JciiiKiii  :  PfctlLTininz-Oel.) 

Distilled  froni  the  fresh  lierb  of  Mentli((  piperita  Smith  (Xat.  Oril. 
Lahiattv). 

"  A  colorless,  j-ellowish,  or  greenish-j-ellow  liquid,  becoming  darker 
and  thicker  by  age  and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  the  characteristic, 
strong  odor  of  ]>eppermint,  and  a  strongly  aromatic,  pungent  taste, 
followed  by  a  sensation  of  cold  when  air  is  drawn  into  the  moutli. 
Specific  gravity  0.900  to  0.920." 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  25 

For  the  distinctive  color  reactions,  and  the  official  test  for  the 
recognition  of  denientholized  oil,  reference  may  he  made  to  the  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia,  1890. 

A  quite  extended  investigation  of  Oil  of  Peppermint  has  been 
conducted  in  our  Garfield  laboratories,  with  special  consideration  of 
the  chemical  composition  of  the  American  oil,  and  the  quantitative 
estimation  of  tlie  menthol.  The  essential  results  of  this  investigation 
are  here  briefly  summarized. 

The  variations  in  the  physical  characters  of  oils  from  ditferent 
sources  are  shown  in  the  following  table: 


Source  of  Oil. 


1.  Our  own    distillation,  from   fresh  Wayne  Co., 

N.  Y. ,  herl ) .' 

2.  Our  own  distillation,  from  partially  dry  Wayne 

Co. ,  N.  Y. ,  herb '. ^  . 

3.  Our  own  distillation,  from  fresh,  wild  growing- 

herb  (New  Jersey) 

4.  Oil  from    Wayne  Co.,  N.  Y.,  new  mint,  first 

cutting,  1893 

5.  Oil  from  Wayne  Co.,  N.  Y.,  from  crop  of  1893. 

6.  Oil  from  St.  Joseph  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint, 

first  cutting,  1893 

7.  Oil  from  St.  Joseph  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint, 

second  cutting.  1893 

8.  Oil  from  Van  Buren  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint, 

first  cutting,  1893 

9.  Oil  from  Wayne  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint,  first 

cutting,  1893 

10.  Oil  from  Mississippi 

11.  Saxon  Oil,   from  herb  grown  and   distilled   by 

Schimmel  &  Co.,  Leipzig 

12.  Mitcham  Oil.     Rectified. 

13.  Japanese  Oil 

14.  Japanese  Oil,  partially  deprived  of  mentliol. .  .  . 


Specific 
Gravity 
at  1.5°  C. 


0.9130 

0.9140 

0.9150 

0.9110 
0.9158 

0.0135 

0.9083 

0.9067 

0.9135 
0.9250 

0.9100 
0.9070 
0.9100 
0.9030 


Optical 

Rotation 

in  m)  Mm. 

Tube. 


—30°    0' 

—32°    0' 

—22°  55 

—32°  30 
-2(5°  45' 

—  9°  45 

—19°  30' 

—29°  20' 

— 2S°  30' 
—13°  40' 

—2(3°  0 
—27°  55' 
—34°  45' 
-31°  20' 


The  deportment  of  the  oils  on  fractional  distillation  affords  an 
excellent  criterion  of  their  character,  as  oils  originally  of  abnormal  com- 
position, as  well  as  those  which  have  lieen  more  or  less  deprived  of 
menthol,  or  which  contain  the  ordinary  adulterants,  may  thus  quite 
readily  be  recognized.  The  results  of  a  single  fractionation  of  50  Cc. 
of  various  oils,  conducted  under  conditions  as  nearly  identical  as 
possible,  and  with  the  mercurial  column  of  the  thermometer  entirely 
in  the  vapor,  are  presented  in  tlie  following  table.  The  figures  represent 
the   number    of   Cc.   of    liquid  which   distilled   over   at    the  specified 


26 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS. 


temperatures,    but  wliich  would    naturally  be   materially  changed   by 
repeated  fractionation. 


Designation  of 

To  200° 

200-2a5" 

205-210» 

210-215° 

215-220°  220-22-5° 

1 

225-230°  230-2a5° 

Oils. 

C. 

c. 

C. 

C. 

C.     1     c. 

C.            C. 

1 

A. 

1.1 

1.4 

5.6 

10.0 

12.9 

8.0 

3.1 

2.0 

B. 

2  2 

5.7 

9.8 

vi:6 

11.3 

2.8 

0.5 

C. 

0.9 

0.8 

1.3 

6.5 

16.2 

11.8 

4.8 

2.4 

D. 

0.7 

0.4 

3.4 

22.0 

17.2 

2.1 

1.0 

E. 

0.5 

1.6 

10.2 

20.7 

12.0 

3.3 

F. 

1.4 

0.7 

12.2 

24.7 

8.6 

A  represents  the  average  of  the  figures  obtained  from  quite  a 
series  of  American  oils,  which  agreed  very  closely  among  themselves, 
as  also  with  the  oil  of  our  own  distillation,  and  to  a  certain  extent 
represent  the  nomial  tjiies  of  American  Peppermint  Oil. 

i?  •  represents  the  average  of  the  figures  obtained  from  three 
Michigan  Oils,  indicated  in  the  preceding  table  by  the  numbers  6,  7 
and  8. 

C  represents  a  MLssissijjjn  Oil,  denoted  in  the  preceding  table 
as  number  10.  This  is  characterized  by  the  remarkably  large  amount 
of  liigher  boiling  constituents,  as  also  by  its  high  specific  gravity. 

Although  these  three  groups  may  be  considered  to  possess  some 
points  of  similaritj-,  thej^  will  be  seen  to  be  totally  different  from  the 
three  next  following,  which  are  much  richer  in  menthol  than  the 
American  oils. 

D  represents  a  normal  Japanese  Oil. 

E  represents  a  Japanese  Oil,  partially  deprived  of  menthol. 

F  represents  a  Rectified  Mitcham  Oil. 

The  results  of  a  chemical  investigation,  conducted  in  our  Garfield 
laboratories,  have  thus  far  shown  that  American  Oil  of  Peppermint 
contains  the  following  bodies: 


1.  Acetaldehyde,  CH3-COH. 

2.  A  eft  iu  acid,  CHs-COOH. 

3.  Iso-valeraldchyde,       (CH:i)2CH-CH2  COH. 

4.  Iso-valeiianu'  acid,  (CH3)2  Cn-CH2  COOH. 


Boiling-  point 


5.  A  liquid  acid, 

6.  Pincnc, 

T.  PhoUandrenc, 

8.  Limoncne, 

9.  Cincol, 

10.  Mcnthone, 

11.  Menthol, 

12.  Mcnthyl  acetate, 

13.  "        iso-valcrianate, 

14.  Cadincnc, 
1.").  .\  lactone. 


r.sHl2  02. 
ClO  H16. 

Cio  Hic. 

Cio  Hic. 

C10H18O. 

Cio  His  O. 

C10H19-OH. 

C10H19-C2H3O2. 

CioHi9-Cr,  H..O2. 

Ci..  H2.1. 

C10H1CO2. 


(COIT.). 

(corr.). 


about  275° 


Meltinu-  iidiiit 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS.  27 

The  lactone  may  be  converted  into  a  colorless,  well  crj-stallizable 
oxy-acid  C10H18O3,  which  melts  at  93'  C. 

The  hydrocarbon  menthene  doHif,  wliich  has  been  stated  to 
occm-  in  Russian  Peppeimint  Oil,  although  apparently  without  suf- 
ficient proof,  we  have  not  been  able  to  detect  in  the  American  oil. 

Although  the  previously  mentioned  physical  characters  of  Oil  of 
Peppermint,  such  as  specific  gravity,  optical  rotation,  and  especially 
its  deportment  on  fractional  distillation,  or  by  exposure  to  cold,  may 
serve  as  a  criterion  of  the  quality  of  the  oil,  and  were  in  fact  hitherto 
the  only  available  means  of  judging  of  its  purity,  a  much  more  exact 
and  satisfactory  method  of  valuation  is  afforded  by  the  quantitative 
determination  of  the  essential  constituent  of  the  oil,  which  is  the 
menthol.  The  researches  conducted  in  oiu-  Garfield  laboratories  have 
led  to  the  formulation  of  such  a  method,  which  is  not  only  quite 
simple  in  execution,  but  also  indicates  with  remarkable  accuracy,  as 
controlling  experiments  with  pure  menthol  have  shown,  the  amount 
of  menthol  which  is  actually  contained  in  the  oil. 

VALUATION  OF  OIL  OF  PEPPERMINT. 

Based  on  the  quantitative  determination  of  the  menthol. 

{a).  Estimation  of  tJie  menthol  contained  in  the  form  of  ester. 

About  20  grammes  of  the  Peppermint  Oil  are  accurately  weighed 
in  a  strong  glass  bottle  having  a  capacity  of  about  100  Cc.  30  Cc.  of 
alcoholic  normal  solution  of  sodium  hydrate  are  then  added,  the  bottle 
tightly  corked,  and  allowed  to  stand  for  an  hour  in  a  bath  of  boiling 
water.  After  cooling,  the  free  alkali  is  titrated,  in  the  same  bottle,  with 
normal  sulphuric  acid,  with  the  use  of  phenol-phtalein  as  an  indicator. 

If  there  are  required  for  this  purpose  a  Cc.  normal  acid,  and  if 
S  represent  the  weight  of  oil  used,  then  the  percentage  of  menthol  P 
contained  in  the  oil  in  the  form  of  ester  may  be  calculated  by  the 
following  formula:  ^r^  j^(>  (30— o) 

(fi).  Estimation  of  the  total  meidhnl,  free  and  combined. 

The  total  liquid  obtained  in  the  preceding  estimation  is  thoroughly 
shaken  in  a  separating  funnel  with  100  Cc.  of  water.  After  the  sep- 
ai-ation  of  the  oil  the  aqueous  liquid  is  drawn  off,  and  the  oil  washed 
in  a  similar  manner  by  shaking  it  with  three  successive  portions  of 
water  of  100  Cc.  each,  for  the  purpose  of  removing  the  alcohol.  The 
washed  oil,  carefully  separated  from  the  water,  is  then  brought  into 
a  flask  having  a  capacity  of  100  to  150  Cc,  and  jDrovided  with  a  long 
glass  tube,  ground  at  one  end  to  fit  the  mouth  of  the  flask  and  serve 
as  a  condenser,  or  otherwise  a  simple  long-necked  flask  may  be  used. 


28 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 


To  the  oil  are  then  added  "2(1  Cc.  of  acetic  anliydride  aud  2  grammes 
of  fused  sodium  acetate,  and  tlie  mixture  kept  in  a  state  of  gentle 
ebullition  for  an  hour.  After  cooling,  the  mixture  is  shaken  with  100 
Cc.  of  water,  and  the  separated  oil  washed  by  agitation  with  a  5  ]>er 
cent,  solution  of  sodium  hydrate,  being  careful  by  the  very  gradual 
addition  of  the  latter  to  avoid  any  considerable  rise  of  temijerature. 
This  washing  is  continued  until,  even  after  repeated  agitation,  the 
liquid  retains  a  slightly  alkaline  reaction.  The  oil  is  subsequently 
waslied  with  several  successive  portions  of  water,  aud,  after  separation, 
it  is  dried  by  contact  Avith  calcium  chloride,  and  filtered. 

Of  this  acetylized  oil,  containing  the  menthol  in  the  form  of  its 
acetic  ester,  about  8  to  10  grammes  are  accurately  weighed  in  a  strong 
glass  bottle,  50  Cc.  of  alcoholic  normal  solution  of  sodium  hydrate 
added,  the  bottle  tightlj'  corked,  and  allowed  to  stand  for  an  hour  in 
a  bath  of  boiling  water.  After  cooling,  the  free  alkali  is  titrated,  in 
the  same  bottle,  with  normal  sulphuric  acid,  wnth  the  use  of  i)henol- 
phtalein  as  an  indicator. 

If  there  are  required  for  this  i)urix)se  h  Cc.  of  normal  acid,  and  if  s 
represent  the  weight  of  acetjiized  oil  used,  then  the  total  2)ercent(ige 
of  vieiithol  V,  free  and  combined,  maj'  be  calculated  by  the  following 
formula : 

P'  = 


(oO—b)  15.56 


\s— 0.0419(50— ?y). 

The    application   of   this   method    to    the    vai-ious    oils    i^reviously 
noted  lias  afforded  the  following  results: 


Designation  of  Oii, 


Menthol 

in  form  of 

Ester. 


Total 
Menthol. 


1.  Our   own   distillation,    from   fresh   AVavne  Co., 

N.  Y.,  herb ". 11.03$» 

2.  Our  own  distillation,  from  partiallv  dry  Wayne  I 

Co.,  N.  Y.,  herb .'....' |    13.84j? 

3.  Oil  from  Wavne  Co.,  N.  Y.,  new  mint,  first  cut- 

ting, 1893.' 8.42^ 

4.  Oil  from  Wayne  Co.,  N.  Y.,  from  crop  of  1893.         9.14,^ 

5.  Oil  from  St.  Joseph  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint, 

first  cutting,  1S93 3.56^? 

6.  Oil    from  St.  Jose])h  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint, 

s(>con<l  cutting.  1893 4.15,';^ 

7.  Oil  froDi  Van  Ikuen  Co.,  Michigan,  new  mint, 

first  cutting,   1893 6.03^? 

8.  Oil  from   Mississippi 11.25^ 

9.  Saxon  Oil,    from  lierl)  grown  aud   distilled  bj' 

Schinunel  &  Co.,  Leipsic 6.31^ 

10.  Mitcham  Oil,  Rectified 4.75^ 

11.  Japanese  Oil 3.46?; 

12.  "         "  partially  deprived  of  menthol 4.60,'? 


52.6^ 

58.1^ 

54.3?; 
49.5^ 

32.1^ 

35.2^ 

49.15?; 
34.9;^ 

66.8^ 
57.9^ 
75.0^ 
59. 6q; 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  29 

Another  specimen  of  Wayne  Co.,  N.  Y.,  oil  was  found  to  contain 
8.5Q%ot  ester  and  58.9,'^^  of  total  methol,  and  a  Jlichigan  oil  10.76$^  of 
ester  and  52.4^  of  total  methol. 

These  observations  -would  indicate  that  a  good  Oil  of  Peppermint 
should  contain  not  less  than  about  50  per  cent,  of  total  menthol,  and 
that  an  oil  containing  materially  less  than  this  amount  must  be 
regarded  as  either  originally  abnormal  or  purposely  deprived  of  a 
portion  of  its  menthol. 

The  Japanese  Oil  of  Peppermint,  although  containing  a  high 
percentage  of  menthol,  is  not  adapted  for  general  use  on  account  of 
possessing  a  peculiarly  bitter  and  disagreeable  taste. 

Oil  of  Peppermint  is  largely  vised  medicinally  as  a  stimulant  and 
carminative,  and  externally  in  rheumatic  and  neuralgic  affections.  It 
is  also  a  popular  flavoring  agent  for  confections,  cordials,  etc. 

Oil  of  Pimeiita.  Oleum  Pimeutje. 

[Oil  of  Allspice] 

(German :  Piment-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Pimenta,  the  nearly  ripe  fruit  of  Pimenta  officinalis 
Lindley  (Nat.  Ord.  Myrfacece). 

"A  colorless  or  pale  yellow  liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker 
by  age  and  exposure  to  tlie  air.  It  has  a  strongly  aromatic,  clove-like 
otlor,  and  a  pungent  and  spicy  taste.  Specific  gravity  1.045  to  1.055" 
(1.04  to  1.05,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  1  Cc.  of  the  oil  should  form  a  clear 
solution  with  2  Cc.  of  a  mixture  of  2  volumes  of  alcohol  and  1  volume 
of  water  (absence  of  petroleum,  most  fatty  oils,  oil  of  turpentine,  etc.). 
The  oil  contains  eugenol,  and  a  sesquiterpene  Ci 5 Ho,. 

Oil  of  Pimenta  is  an  aromatic  stimulant,  closely  resembling  in 
composition  and  properties  the  Oil  of  Cloves. 

Oil  of  Rose.  Oleum  Rosae. 

(Grrmau  :  Uosen-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  flowers  of  Rosa  damascena  Mueller  (Nat. 
Ord.  Rosacea'). 

"A  pale  yellowish,  transparent  liquid,  having  the  strong,  fragrant 
od(jr  of  rose,  and  a  nvild,  slightly  sweetish  taste.  Specific  gravity 
0.865  to  0.880  at  20"  C.  (0.855  to  0.865  at  20°  C,  Schimmel  &  Co.). 
The  congealing  point  of  the  oil  is  subject  to  some  variation,  depend- 
ing upon  the  amount  of  stearopten,  but  when  slowly  cooled  to  a 
temperature,  usually,  between  16''  and  21'  C,  it  becomes  a  transparent 
solid,  interspersed  with  numerous,  slender,  shining,  iridescent,  scale- 
like crystals.  Upon  the  application  of  the  heat  of  the  hand  tlie 
crystals  should  float  in  the  upper  portion  of  the  liquefied  oil." 

The  liquid,  fragrant  portion  of  Oil  of  Rose  consists  for  the  most 
part  of   an   alcoholic  body  of   the  composition  CioHihO,    which   first 


30  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

received  the  name  of  fhoiVinol  (Eekart,  in  ^l/(7(.  der  Phdrm.,  229,  p. 
350,  and  Barhier,  Compt.  rend.,  117,  pp.  177,  1092).  Bertram  and 
Gildemeister,  in  the  laboratory  of  Schimniel  &  Co.,  have  recenth' 
shown,  liowever,  that  the  so-called  "rhodiuol"  is  simply  impure 
geraniol,  the  latter  being  associated  in  the  oil  with  a  very  small 
amount  of  a  substance,  or  possibly  mixture  of  substances,  having  a 
honey -like  odor,  and  which  combine  to  produce  the  peculiarly  fragrant 
odor  of  i-ose  oil.  (See  Joiirn.  filr  prakt.  Chem.,  N.  F.,  Bd.  49,  pp.  185- 
196;  also  Schimmel  &  Co.s  Bericht,  April,  1894,  pp.  47-49.) 

The  solid,  crystallizable  portion,  or  so-called  stearopten ,  of  Oil  of 
Eose  is  odorless  Avheu  i)ure,  and  consists  of  a  mixture  of  several 
hydrocarbons,  one  of  which  melts  at  35.5^  to  36.5"  C,  and  has  the 
comi)osition  CJ0H40. 

The  test  with  concentrated  suipliuric  acid,  proposed  by  Pauajotow 
{Ber.  d.  deutsch.  chem.  Ges.,  24,  p.  27('()),  and  adopted  by  the  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia,  for  the  detection  of  the  Indian  or  so-called  Turkish 
Oil  of  Geranium  (from  Andropogoii  ScJioenanthus  Linne)  and  the  Oil 
of  Rose  Geranium  (from  various  species  of  Pelargonium),  appears  to 
afford  quite  reliable  indications  if  the  amount  of  these  adulterants  be 
considerable,  and  especially  if  there  be  added  to  the  mixture  of  5 
drops  of  oil  and  5  drops  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  about  5  Cc. 
of  alcohol,  instead  of  2  Cc.  as  officially  directed.  Like  all  similar 
empirical  tests,  it  possesses,  however,  the  element  of  uncertainty,  and 
the  general  physical  characters,  such  as  odor,  congealing  point,  specific 
gravity,  optical  rotation,  etc.,  still  continue  to  afford  useful  criterious 
respecting  the  character  and  purity  of  this  oil. 

The  German  Oil  of  Rose,  distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  in  a 
factory  erected  for  this  special  purpose  and  located  directly  in  their 
rose  fields  at  Miltitz,  near  Leipsic,  is  an  exceptionally  fine  article,  being 
of  absolute  purity  and  unsurpassable  fragrance. 

Oil  of  Rose  is  used  exclusively  for  its  delicious  perfume,  or  for 
imparting  flavor  to  other  substances. 

Oil  of  Rosemary.  Oleum  Kosmariiii. 

{German :  Kosmarin-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Rosmarinns  officinalis  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Labiatce). 

"A  colorless  or  pale  yellow,  limpid  liquid,  having  the  character- 
istic, pungent  odor  of  rosemary,  and  a  warm,  somewhat  camphoraceous 
taste.  Specific  gravity  0.895  to  0.915  "  (0.900  to  0.910,  Schimmel  &  Co.). 
It  deviates  polarized  light  to  the  right.  One  part  of  the  oil  should 
form  a  clear  solution  with  3^  to  1)^  times  its  volume  of  alcohol  of  90 
per  cent,  by  volume,  at  a  temperature  of  about  20'  C. 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS.  31 

By  the  above  tests  of  specific  gravity,  optical  rotation,  and  sol- 
ubility, admixtvires  of  either  French  or  American  oil  of  turpentine 
can  readily  be  detected.  The  oil  contains  jiinene,  cineol,  borneol,  and 
camphor. 

Oil  of  Rosemary  is  largely  used  in  perfumery.  Medicmally,  it  is 
occasionally  used  internally  as  a  stimulant  and  c-arminative,  and 
externally  in  liniments  and  ointments. 

Oil  of  Sandal  Wood,  see  Oil  of  Saiital. 

Oil  of  Saiital.  Oleum  Saiitali. 

[Oilof  Saiulal  Wood.] 

(German :  Sandelholz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  wood  of  Santalum  album  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Santalacea'). 

"A  pale  yellowish  or  yellow,  somewhat  thickish  liquid,  having  a 
peculiar,  strongly  aromatic  odor,  and  a  pungent,  spicy  taste.  Specific 
gravity  0.970  to  0.978"  (0.975  to  0.980,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  Optical 
rotation  — 17'  to  — 20'.  "  1  Cc.  of  the  oil  should  form  a  clear  solution 
with  10  Cc.  of  alcoliol  of  70  per  cent,  by  volume,  and  at  a  temperature 
of  about  20^  C.  (test  for  cedanooocl  oil,  fatty  oils,  etc.)." 

The  East  Indian  or  official  Oil  of  Santal  contains,  according  to 
Chapoteaut  {Bidl.  Soc.  Chim.  (N.  S.),  37,  1883,  p.  303),  a  body  called 
santalal,  Ci5Hn4  0,  boiling  at  300'  C,  together  with  a  smaller  amount 
of  an  alcoholic  body  termed  santalal,  CisHasO,  which  boils  at 
310°  C,  and  is  converted  by  phosphorus  pentoxide  into  santalene, 
Ci5H.,4,  boiling  at  260°  C. 

Oil  of  Santal  is  used  in  i)erfumery,  and  medicinally  as  a  substitute 
for  copaiba  in  diseases  of  the  mucous  membranes. 

The  above  described  oil  may  readily  be  distinguished  from  the 
following  non-official  varieties  of  oil  of  santal: 

Oil  of  Sautal,  African. 

Distilled  from  a  wood  of  unknown  botanical  origin,  from  Mada- 
gascar. The  oil  has  a  ruby-red  color,  and  the  consistence  of  East 
Indian  sandal  wood  oil.     Specific  gravity  0.969. 

Oil  of  Santal,  South  Australian. 

Distilled  from  the  wood  of  Santahoii  Preissianum  Miquel. 

This  oil  has  a  cherry-red  color,  and  is  very  thick  or  solid  at 
ordinary  temperatures.  Specific  gravity  1.022.  It  contains  a  crystal- 
lizable  alcohol,  C,5H24  O,  which  fuses  at  101-103°  C.  (See  Schimmel  & 
€o.'s  Berichf,  April,  1894,  p.  50.) 


33  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Oil  of  S.aiital,  West  Australian  (Swau  Khei). 

Distilled  from  the  wood  of  Santalum  cygnomm  Miquel. 
The  oil  lias  a  sharp,  resinous- empy re uniatic  odor.     Specific  gravity 
0.953.     Optical  rotation  +5'  20'. 

Oil  of  Saiital,  West  Iniliaii. 

Distilled  from  a  wood  of  unknown  botanical  origin.  Specific 
gravity  0.963  to  0.967.     Optical  rotation  about  +26'. 

Oil  of  Sassafras.  Oleuiu  Sassafras. 

(Gcrinan :  Sassafras-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  the  root  of  Sassafras  variifolium 
(Salisbury)  O.  Kuntze  (Nat.  Ord.  Laurinea;). 

"A  yellowish  or  reddish-yellow  licjuid,  having  the  characteristic 
odor  of  sassafras,  without  the  odor  of  camphor,  and  a  warm,  aromatic 
taste.     Specific  gravity  1 .  070  to  1. 090. "' 

An  oil  distilled  in  our  Garfield  factory  from  sassafras  bark  has  a 
specific  gravity  of  1.075,  and  an  optical  rotation  of  -|-3°  16'. 

The  oil  consists  chieflj-  of  safrol  (see  the  latter,  under  Chemical 
Preparations,  Part  III),  with  a  very  small  amount  of  eugenol,  and  a 
dextrogyrate  hydrocarbon  termed  safrene  C10H16,  which  is  ju-obably 
identical  with  pineue. 

The  so-called  "  Artificial  Oil  of  Sassafras,"  which  has  been  brought 
into  American  commerce,  is  not  in  any  sense  a  synthetic  x>i'<>duct,  as 
its  misleading  name  would  imply,  but  is  evidently  obtained  by  the 
fractionation  of  camphor  oil.  As  the  essential  and  predominating 
constituent  of  Oil  of  Sassafras  is  safrol,  the  advantages  of  the  latter 
in  a  pure  forni  are  sufiiciently  apparent. 

Oil  of  Sassafras  is  used  chiefly  for  perfuming  ordinary  soaps,  and 
for  imparting  flavor  to  beverages,  etc. 

Oil  of  Saviiie.  Oleum  SaMuae. 

(German  :  Sadebavim-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  tops  of  Juniperus  Sabina  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Conifer(P). 

"A  colorless  or  j^ellowish  liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by 
age  and  exposure  to  the  air.  It  has  a  peculiar,  terebinthinate  odor, 
and  a  pungent,  bitterish,  and  camphoraceous  taste.  Specific  gi-avity 
0.910  to  0.940"  (0.905  to  0.930,  Scliimmel  &  Co.).  Optical  rotation 
-|-40°  to  +50°.     It  contains  pinene,  and  cadinene  dsHv,. 

Oil  of  Savine  is  used  medicinally  as  a  stimulant,  enunenagogue, 
and  rubefacient. 


OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  33 

Oil  of  Spearmint.  Oleum  Meuthsv  Viridis. 

(German :  Speermiiiz-(  )l'1.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  herb  of  MentJia  viridis  Liune  (Nat  Onl. 
Lahi((t(e). 

"A  coloi'less,  yellowish,  or  greeuish-yellow  liquid,  Ijecoiniiif;  darker 
and  thicker  by  age  and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  the  characteristic, 
strong  odor  of  spearmint,  and  a  warm,  aromatic  taste.  Specific 
gravity  0.980  to  0.94!)"  (0.920  to  0.940,  Schimmel  &  Co.).  The  oil 
contains  la^vogyrate  carvol  and  hevogyrate  limonene,  with  jwssibly 
some  laevogyrate  pinene.     (Compare  Oil  of  Caraway.) 

Oil  of  Spearmint  i.-i  used  medicinally  as  an  aromatic  stimulant 
and  carminative,  and  is  also  eini)loyed  for  perfuming  soaps. 

Oil  of  Sweet  Birch,  see  Oil  of  Betiila. 

Oil  of  Tar.  Oleum  Picis  Liquidje. 

(German:  Theer-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Tar,  an  empyreumatic  oleoresin  obtained  by  the 
destructive  distillation  of  the  wood  of  Pinus  jpalustris  ]\Iiller,  and 
of  other  species  of  Pinus  (Nat.  Ord.  Coiiiferce). 

"An  almost  colorless  liquid  when  freshly  distilled,  but  soon 
ac(j[uiring  a  dark  reddish-brown  color,  and  having  a  strong,  tarry  odor 
and  taste.     Specific  gravity  about  0.970." 

This  oil  is  a  complex  mixture  of  hydrocarbons,  acetic  and  other 
acids,  and  undetermined  empyreumatic  products  present  in  tar. 

It  has  the  medicinal  properties  of  tar,  and  is  used  chiefly  in 
diseases  of  the  skin. 

Oil  of  Thyme.  Oleum  Thymi. 

(German :  Thyinian-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  Thymus  imlgaris 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Labiatce). 

' '  A  yellowish  or  yellowish-red  liquid,  having  a  strong  odor  of 
thyme,  and  an  aromatic,  pungent,  afterwards  cooling  taste.  Specific 
gravity  0.900  to  0.930." 

Messrs.  Schinmiel  &  Co.  haye  found  Oil  of  Thyme  of  their  own 
distillation  to  vary  in  specific  gravity,  according  to  its  source,  as 
follows : 

From  fresh   herb,   German 0.925-0.935. 

"      dried      "  "       0.909-0.928. 

"      fresh       "       French 0.934. 

(tultivaiod  ill  Sa.xonj) 

"      dried  herb,  French 0.909-0.918. 

"      herb,  Spanish   0.925-0.950. 


34  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

The  most  iinportaut  coiistitueut  of  Oil  of  Tliyine  is  tliyinol  (see 
tiie  latter,  under  Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III).  In  some  oils, 
however,  there  is  found,  instead  of  thymol,  the  isomeric  carvacrol, 
and  in  others  the  two  phenols  occur  in  nearly  etjual  amounts.  Other 
constituents  are  cymol,  and  very  small  amounts  of  bornjl  esters. 

The  oil  should  form  a  clear  solution  with  half  its  volume  of 
alcohol  (distinction  Irom  oils  irhu'li  have  been  deprived  of  their 
phenols). 

Oil  of  Thj'me  is  used  chiefly  as  an  external  stimufant,  in  Ihii- 
nients,  etc. 

The  following  non  official,  but  closely  related  oils,  may  convenientlj' 
be  considered  here; 

Oil  of  Thyme,  AVild  {Oleum  Serpylli). 

(German :  Feldthymian-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  dry  herb  of  Thymns  Serpylliim  Liime  (Nat. 
Ord.  Lahiatce). 

This  oil  has  a  very  agreeable,  melissa-Iike  aroma,  with  a  slight  odor 
of  thyme.  Specific  gravitj-  0.917.  Optical  rotation —10"  20.  It  con- 
tains thymol  and  carvacrol. 

Tliis  oil  should  not  be  confused  with  an  oil  distilled  in  .southern 
France,  known  as  "  f^ssence  de  Serpolet,"'  which  is  of  uncertain  origin, 
and  has  an  odor  reminding  more  of  pennyroyal. 

Oil  of  Tliymus  camphondns  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.004  and 
contains  carvacrol. 

Oil  of  Thynuis  ccqnfcdus,  distilled  in  southern  Spain,  has  a  strong 
thyme-like  odor,  reminding  somewhat  of  origaiuun.  Si)ecific  gravity 
0.901.  It  contains  i)iuene,  cymol,  dipentene,  bornyl  acetate,  thymol, 
and  ])n)l>nbly  carvacrol. 

Oil  of  Turpentine.  Oleum  Terebinth injp. 

{GrrmiDi :  Teri)L>iitiii-()el.) 

Distilled  from  American  Turpentine,  a  concrete  oleoresin  obtained 
from  Piiius  j'tdustris  ^liWw,  ami  from  other  species  of  Pintifi  (Nat. 
Ord.  Conifera'). 

"A  thin,  colorless  liquid,  having  a  charactei-istic  odor  and  taste, 
both  of  which  become  stronger  and  less  pleasant  by  age  and  exposure 
to  the  air.  Specific  gravity  0.855  to  0.870  "  (0.855  to  0.876,  Schimmel  & 
Co.).  It  deviates  polarized  light  to  tiie  right  (distinction  from  French 
Oil  of  Turpentine).  "Boiling  point  between  155  and  170'  C.  It  is 
.soluble  ill  '.]  times  its  volume  of  alcohol,  and  in  an  equal  volume  of 
glacial  acetic  acid." 


OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS.  35 

Oil  of  Turpentine,  Rectiftetl. 

(German:  Rectiflcirtes  Terpciitin-Oel.) 

Oleum  Terebinthime  Rectiftcatuni. 

This  oil,  purified  from  resinous  matter  and  other  oxidation  prod- 
ucts according  to  the  directions  of  the  Pharmacoj^ceia,  is  the  only  form 
in  which  Oil  of  Turpentine  is  suitable  for  internal  use.  "It  is  a 
perfectly  colorless  liquid,  having  a  mild  odor,  and  the  general  prop- 
erties mentioned  under  Oil  of  Turpentine.  Specific  gravity  0.855  to 
0.865.  Boiling  point  about  160  C."  10  Cc.  of  the  freshly  rectified 
oil,  ^^•hen  evaporated  on  a  water  bath,  should  leave  a  residue  weigliing 
not  more  than  about  0.03  gramme.  The  oil  consists  chiefly  of  dextro- 
gyrate pinene. 

Oil  of  Wintergreen,  Natural,  see  Oil  of  Gaultheria. 
Oil  of  Wiutergreen,  Synthetic  or  Artificial. 

[Methyl  salicylate.]  ^j^^j^    j    SalicjlaS. 

(German:  AVintergreen-Oel,  Synthetisch.)  (CH-)C-  H-  () 

"A  colorless  or  slightly  yellowish  liquid,  having  a  characteristic, 
strongly  aromatic  odor,  and  a  sweetish,  warm,  and  aromatic  taste. 
Specific  gravity  1.188  to  1.185  (when  perfectly  free  from  water,  1.187). 
Boiling  point  219"  to  221    C.     It  is  optically  inactive. 

"If  to  1  Cc.  of  Methyl  Salicylate,  contained  in  a  capacious  test  tube, 
10  Cc.  of  a  5  per  cent,  solution  of  sodium  hydrate  be  added,  and  the 
mixtvire  agitated,  a  bulky,  white,  crystalline  precipitate  will  be  pro- 
duced; then,  if  the  test  tube,  loosely  corked,  be  allowed  to  stand 
in  boiling  water  for  about  five  minutes,  with  occasional  agitation,  the 
precipitate  should  dissolve,  and  form  a  clear,  colorless  or  faintly 
yellowish  solution,  without  the  separation  of  any  oily  drops,  either  on 
the  surface  or  at  the  bottom  of  the  liquid  (absence  of  otliei'  volatile 
oils  or  of  x>etrolexim). 

"If  the  alkaline  liquid  thus  obtained  be  subsequently  diluted  with 
about  three  times  its  volume  of  water,  and  a  slight  excess  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  added,  a  white,  crvstalline  precipitate  will  be  produced, 
which,  when  collected  on  a  filter,  washed  with  a  little  water,  and 
recrystallized  from  hot  water,  should  respond  to  the  tests  for  identity 
and  purity  of  salicylic  acid  (absence  of  metlii/l  benzoate,  etc.)." 

Synthetic  Oil  of  Wintergreen  was  first  i)repared  on  a  large  scale 
and  brought  into  commerce  by  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.,  of  Lei[)sic, 
and  it  is  now  also  manufactured  extensively  in  our  Garfield  factory. 
Being  a  definite  chemical  compound,  and  readily  obtainable  in  a  state 
of  perfect  purity,  it  has  rapidly,  and  to  a  large  extent,  displaced  the 


36  OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  "^^ 

natural  oils  of  \nrvh  and  gaultheria.  The  two  latter  oils,  being  pre- 
pared mostly  by  itinerant  distillers,  are  also  much  more  subject  to 
adulteration  than  the  synthetic  product. 

For  a  review  of  some  of  the  fallacious  tests  which  have  been 
assumed  to  discriminate  between  the  .synthetic  and  natural  oils,  eee 
Pliarm.  Rundschau,  N.  Y.,  1893,  pp.  7-9.  (Compare  also  Oil  of  Betula 
and  0(7  of  Gaidtheria.) 

Synthetic  Oil  of  Wintergreen  is  used  chieHy  as  a  flavoring  agent. 

Oil  of  Wormseed,  American,  ^cc  Oil   of  Clieiioi»oilium. 


PART  II 

NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

The    Oils     included     in     the     following    List     are     not     recognized 

by  the    United     States    Pharmacopoeia,    Seventh    Decennial 

Revision,    1890.       Many    of    them,     however,     are     of 

Commercial   Importance,  while  others  must  be 

regarded  at   present   as  possessing  chiefly 

Scientific  Interest. 


Oil  of  Achillea  coronopifolia. 

Distilled  iu  Spain  from  the  flowering  herb. 

The  oil  is  limpid,  has  a  deep  l^lue  color,  and  a  strong,  agreeable 
odor,  reminding  of  oil  of  tansy.     Specific  gravity  0.924. 

Oil  of  Achillea  Millefoliuin,  see  Oil  of  Milfoil. 
Oil  of  Achillea  moschata,  see  Oil  of  Iva. 
Oil  of  Amber,  Rectified. 

{Gi'niiai>:  Rectificirtes  Rernsteiii-Oel.) 

An  empyreumatic  oil  obtained  from  Amber,  the  latter  being  a 
fossil  resin  from  Pinites  snccinifei'  Goeppert,  and  other  extinct  conif- 
ei'ous  trees. 

This  oil  was  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  1870,  under 
the  title  Oleum  Succini  Rectijlcatuiii,  and  was  described  as  "a  color- 
less or  pale  yellow,  thin  lifjuid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by  age 
and  exposure  to  the  air,  having  an  empyreumatic,  balsamic  odor,  and 
a  specific  gravity  of  about  0.920." 

We  have  found  the  specific  gravity  of  the  crude  oil  to  be  aljout 
0.975,  and  that  of  the  rectified  oil  0.915.  A  normal  rectified  oil  is 
not  colorless,  but  possesses  a  brown  color,  becoming  darker  l)y  age. 

The  oil  consists  chiefly  of  a  mixture  of  hj'drocarbons,  with  some 
phenols.  It  is  rarely  employed  medicinallj',  and  chiefly  externally 
in  the  form  of  liniments. 


38  NONOFFICIAI.  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Oil  of  Aiiibrette  Seed. 

{(It  riiKtii :  M()si'lui.*kuiii<i--()L'l.) 

Distilled  from  tlu'  seed  of  Abel))ioschtis  iiioschdfiis  ."\loencli  (Nat. 
Old.  MiUviiccw). 

This  oil  is  solid  at  a  teniperatvire  below  10  C.  It  has  a  strong 
and  persistent  odor,  reminding  of  musk  and  civet.  Sjiecific  gravity 
().!)()()  to  ().9().')  at  2")  C.  It  contains  a  free  fatty  acid,  possibly  palmitic, 
which  .separates  i)artially  at  ordinary  temperatures.  The  oil  has  not 
been  further  examined  chemically.     It  is  of  value  in  perfumery. 

A  fictitious  article  occurring  in  commerce  lias  been  found  to 
consist  chiefly  of  copaiba  oil. 

Oil  of  Aiiiinoiiiac. 

(dtrinan :  Aiuiiioniukgummi-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Ammoniac,  the  latter  being  a  gum-resin  obtained 
from  Dorema  Aiiiiitoniacion  Don  (Nat.  Ord.  Uinbellifcrd'). 

The  oil  has  a  dark  yellow  color,  a  strong  odor  of  the  drug,  and 
reminding  also  of  oil  of  angelica.  Specific  gravity  0.891.  It  boils 
between  250"  and  290  C.  It  appears  not  to  have  been  further 
examined  chemically. 

Oil  of  Aiii^elica  Fruit. 

{(jcrnuni :  An^iolicalrik'hte-Ot'l.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit,  commonly  called  seed,  of  ArcJiaugelica 
olficiiudls  Hoffmann  (Nat.  Ord.  Umbellifenc). 

The  oil  has  a  pale  yellow  color,  but  becomes  darker  and  thicker 
by  age.  Its  odor  resembles  that  of  the  oil  from  the  njot,  but  is  much 
finer.  Specific  gravity  O.SoO  to  0.909.  Optital  rotation  -(-11°  12'  to 
-|-11  45'.  It  contains  ])hellandrene,  valerianic  acid  (methyl  ethyl- 
acetic  acid),  and  oxymyristic  acid  CnH2b0.i. 

Oil  of  Augelica  Root. 

(German  :  Ang-elicawurzel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Ai chaiujeUca  o[]icin(iIis  Hoirmann  (Nat. 
Ord.  UmbeUifcr(X'). 

A  limpid  liijuid.  colorless  when  freshly  distilhnl,  but  becoming 
yellow  on  exposure  to  light,  and  having  a  strongly  aroiftatic  odor  and 
taste.  Specific  gravity  0.855  to  0.905.  Optical  rotation  -f26  45'  to 
-f-30°  7'.  It  contains  various  terpenes.  among  which  phellandrene  has 
been  identified. 

The  oil  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  liijuors. 

Japanese  Angelica  Root,  from  either  Angelica  refructa  Fr.  Schmidt 
{Jap.:   "Senkiyu"),    or    Angelica   anoniala   Lall   (Jap.:   "  Riyakushi '"), 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  ol) 

affords  an  oil  which  differs  from  the  German  in  odor  and  compo- 
sition. Its  specific  gravity  is  0.910  at  20'  C.  At  10'  C.  it  separates 
crj'stals,  and  at  0'  C.  forms  a  butter-like  mass.  The  crystals  have  the 
character  of  a  fatty  acid,  and  melt  at  &2  to  63'  C.  The  oil  distills 
between  170'  and  300'  C. 

Oil  of  Angostura  Bark. 

{German :  Angosturaiinden-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Galipea  C'^.spaj'/Vf  St.  Hilaire  (Nat.  Ord. 
Hutacece). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  becoming  darker  on  exposure  to  the 
air,  and  an  aromatic  odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.956.  It  is 
very  slightly  IjBvogyrate.  It  begins  to  boil  at  153°  C,  and  distills 
mostly  between  200'  and  220°  C. 

Oil  of  Anise  Bark. 

[Gcnnaii :  Aiiisrjiiden-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  a  bark  of  uncertain  botanical  origin,  from  Mada- 
gascar. 

The  oil  has  a  light  yellow  color,  an  odor  reminding  of  safrol  and 
estragon,  and  a  spicy,  but  only  slightly  sweetisli  taste.  Specific 
gravity  0.969.  Besides  a  small  amount  of  anethol,  it  consists  chiefly 
of  a  liquid  isomer  of  the  latter,  para-methoxy-allyl-benzol  or  methyl- 
chavicol,  CH3  0-C„  H4-CH,-CH  =  CH.2. 

Oil  of  Anise,  Star  (Chinese). 

{German :  Stei"nanis-<^el.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  IU:ehuti  veriwi  Hooker  fil  (Nat.  Ord. 
Mayii(jli(ice(e). 

A  colorless  or  yellowish  liquid,  having  an  anise-like-  odor  and 
taste.  Specific  gravity  0.980  to  0.990  at  17'  C.  Congealing  point  12° 
to  18'  C.  This  oil,  like  the  official  oils  of  anise  and  fennel,  often 
shows  an  inclination  to  remain  liquid  at  a  temperature  below  its  true 
congealing  point.  To  determine  the  latter,  a  small  portion  of  the  oil, 
contained  in  a  test  tube,  should  be  cooled  to  about  12°  to  14°  C.  by 
means  of  cold  water.  A  few  crystals,  previously  obtained  by  solidi- 
fying a  little  of  the  oil  in  a  freezing  mixture,  are  then  l)rought  into 
the  liquid  oil  by  means  of  a  glass  rod,  when  the  entire  li(|uid  should 
solidify  to  a  mass  of  crystals. 

The  oil  consists  chiefly  of  anethol,  together  with  piuene,  phellau- 
drene,  safrol,  and  the  ethyl  ether  of  hydroquinone. 

The  uses  of  this  oil  are  similar  to  those  of  the  official  Oil  of  Anise. 

Oil  of  Japanese  Star  Anise,  from  the  fruit  of  lUiciuia  religiosum 
Loureiro,  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.984  to  0.994,  and  contains  a  ter 
pene,  anethol,  and  safrol. 


40  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Oil  of  Aiioiia,  SIC3  Oil  of  YIjuij;  Ylaiig. 

Oil   of  Apple,   Artificial,  sre    Aiii.vl   Valerianate,  under 

Ciu'iiiical   J*re]>aratioiis,    l*art   IIL 
Oil  of  Arbor   Vita',  sec   Oil  of  Thuja. 
Oil  of  Arnica  Flowers. 

(Gcnium :  Arnicabliithen-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  flowers  of  Arnica  luontaud  Linue  (Nat.  Ord. 
Contpositd'). 

The  oil  is  usually  of  a  yellowish  color,  becoming  brown  with  age, 
and  has  a  strongly  aromatic  odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.900  at 
25'  C.  The  physical  characters  of  the  oil  are  subject  to  considerable 
variation,  depending  ujjon  the  amount  of  stearopten  or  paraffin-like 
bodies  present.  Thus,  while  the  oil  is  sometimes  licjuid  at  ordinary 
temperatures,  solidifying  only  in  winter,  the  jiroduct  of  other  distil- 
lations forms  at  lo'  to  20"  C.  a  butter-like  mass  (see  Scliimmel  &  Co.'s 
Bericht,  April,  1894,  p.  9). 

The  oil  appears  not  yet  to  have  been  chemically  examined. 

Oil  of  Arnica  Root. 

{(ii-niuni :  Ar.'iieawurzel-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Arnica  montana  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Composit(c). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  becoming  darker  witli  age,  a  strong 
odor,  and  sharp,  aromatic  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.990  to  1.0.  It 
contains  about  80  per  cent,  of  the  dimethyl  ether  of  thyniohydro- 
quinone,  Ci„  Hij  (OCH:,).,,  and  2)  per  cent,  of  phlorol  iso-butyric  ester, 
C^IIi-COOCHo,  Avith  a  very  little  phlorol-methyl  ether,  CsHs- 
OCHa. 

The  oil  is  occasionally  used  medicinally. 

Oil  of  .Vrteniisia  Absinthium,  see  Oil  of  AVornnvood. 
Oil  of  Artemisia  Barellieri. 

Distilli'd  ill  soutiiern  Spain  from  the  flowt-riiiu,"  herb  of  Artfiin'sia 
BarcUieri  Doiss.      (Nat.  Ord.   Couqmsifte.) 

The  oil  has  an  agreeable  and  strongly  aromatic  odor,  reminding 
of  tansy.     Specific  gravity  0.923.     It  boils  between  180'  and  210°  C. 

Oil  of  Artemisia  Dracunculus,  s( c  Oil  of  Estragon. 


NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  41 

Oil  of  Artemisia  giacialis. 

(German :  Alpenbelf uss-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Artemisia  glacialin  Luc,  the  so-called 
Genepi  des  Alpes  (Nat.  Ord.  Composita-). 

The  oil  has  a  strongly  aromatic  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.964  at 
20°  C.  It  solidifies  at  0"  to  a  butter-like  mass,  which  is  due  to  the 
presence  of  a  fatty  acid  having  a  melting  point  of  Gl  ('.  The  oil 
boils  between  195"  and  310    C. 

Oil  of  Artemisia  maritima,  see  Oil  of  Wormseed,  Levant. 
Oil  of  Artemisia  viilacaris. 

(Gi'iiiian  :  Beif  uss-(  )t'l.) 

This  oil  has  been  distilled  both  from  the  hei-b  and  the  root  of 
Artemisia  vulgaris  Linne,  or  common  Mugwort  (Nat.  Ord.  C'ompnsitce). 

The  oil  from  the  herb  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.920,  but  has  not 
been  further  examined. 

Oil  of  Asafetida. 

(German:  Asaf(jetida-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Asafetida,  a  gum  resin  obtained  frt)m  the  root  of 
Ferula  foetida  (Bunge)  Regel  (Nat.  Ord.    Umhellifene). 

The  oil  has  a  light  yellow  color,  and  the  penetrating,  disagreeable 
odor  of  the  drug.  The  specific  gravity  has  been  observed  to  be  in 
one  specimen  0.9789  at  12°  C,  and  in  another  0.9843  at  22'  C. 
(Semmler),  or  0.98o  at  1")"  C.  (Schimmel  &  Co.),  and  0.9515  at  25'  C. 
(Fliickigeri.  Optical  rotation  — 9"  15  (Semmler),  or  -\-lS'  to  +19" 
(Fliickiger).  The  oil  is  stated  to  contain  two  terpenes  CjuH,,;,  a  ))ody 
of  the  composition  Ci I,  Hi G  O,  which  yields  a  sesquiterpene  Ci  5  Hj4,  the 
sulphur  compounds  CtHhS-j  and  CnH^oSo,  and  a  blue  colored  oil  in 
the  higher  boiling  portions.  (Semmler,  Bcr.  d.  dentscJt.  chrm.  Ges., 
1890,  p.  3530.  and  1891.  p.  78.) 

Oil  of  Asariim  Caiiadeiise. 

(German :  Canadisclie-Schlan^cnwurzel-( )ol.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  and  roots  of  Asarum  C'anadense  Linne, 
"Canada  Snake  Roof  (Nat.  Ord.  Aristolochiacece). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowi.sh  or  }-ello wish- brown  color,  and  a  strong, 
agreeably  aromatic  odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.930  to  0.960. 
It  contains  a  small  amount  of  a  terpene  (about  5  per  cent.);  an 
alcohol  C10H17-OH,  boiling  point  197"  to  199^  C,  termed  asarol, 
probably    identical    with    linalool    (about    35    per    cent.);   an    alcohol 


42  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

C10II1--OH,  boiling  point  ••2',':J  to  220  C,  liaving  a  geranium-like 
odor  (about  15  per  ceui;.);  the  methyl  ether  of  eugenol  CeHsiC'aHs) 
(OCH;,)j  (about  3.")  per  cent.);  acetic  and  valerianic  acids,  as  esters  of 
the  above  mentioned  alcohols;  and  a  high  boiling  fraction  of  a  deep 
blue  color  (about  10  per  cent.),  but  no  dsarone.  {Proc.  Amer.  PJiarin. 
Assoc,  1880,  pp.  464-485;  Pharm.  Rundschau,  1888,  p.  101;  Bcr.  d. 
dcufsch.  chevi.  Ges.,  21,  ]>.  1004.)  Compare  also  Oil  of  Asarniu 
EiiropiPJim. 

The  oil  forms  a  clear  solution  with  twice  its  volume  of  TO  per 
cent,  alcohol.     It  is  of  value  in  perfumer}'. 

Oil  of  Asaruiu  EiiropjiMiin. 

{(icrinint:  Asarvim-Ocl  oi-  Ilaselwurz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizomi?  and  roots  of  Asarxin  Europceum  Linne, 
"  Asaral)acca"  (Nat.  Ord.  An'stoloclildcea'). 

A  somewhat  thick,  brownisli  liquid,  having  a  sweetish-aromatic 
odor.  Spec-ific  gravity  1.046  to  1.068.  It  contains  pinene;  the  methyl 
ether  of  eugenol  Co  H3  (C3  H5)  (0CH:,)-2 ;  asarone  Or.  Ho  (C3  H5)  (OCH:,)^ ; 
and  a  high  boiling  fraction  of  a  bluish  color,  but  no  asarol  (Arcliiv  der 
Pharm.,  1888,  pp.  89-123,  and  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  diem.  Ges.,  21,  pp. 
1057-1063).     Compare  also  0(7  of  Asarinn  Canadense. 

Oil  of  lialsaiii  Peru. 

{Gcnnan:  Peru  I5:ils:iin-(^cl.) 

Distilled  from  the  balsam  of  Toluifera  Pereine  (Royle)  Baillon  (Nat. 
Ord.  Leyuminosfe). 

A  light  colored  li([tii(l.  liaviug  an  agreeahly  aromatic  odor,  re- 
minding of  Balsam  of  Peru,  of  which  it  is  the  chief  constituent.  It 
consists  for  the  most  part  of  "cinnamein,"  the  benxyl  e.sters  of 
cinnamic  and  benzoic  acids.  According  to  Trog  (ArcJiiv  der  PJtarm., 
1894,  pp.'  70-98),  the  liquid  portion  of  Balsam  of  Peru  consists  chiefly  of 
benzyl  benzoate,  C-,  H7  (C7  H^  Oo),  with  only  a  very  small  amount  of 
benzyl  cinnamate,  C:  H;  (C,  H,  O,). 

The  oil  is  used  in  ])erfumeiy. 

(HI  of  Balsam  Tolii. 

{GeniiiOi:  Tolu  Halsum-C  )el.) 

Distilled  from  the  balsam  of  Toluifera  Balsamum  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Leynininosce). 

The  oil  has  a  very  agreeable,  hyacinth-like  odor.  Specific  gravity 
0.935  to  0.975.  It  contains  a  terpene  C,„H,fi,  and  esters  of  cinnamic 
and  benzoic  acid. 

The  oil  is  of  value  in  perfumery. 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  43 

Oil  of  Basilieiiin  oi*  Eiirll. 

(GcruHin :  Uiisilicuui-OcI  ) 

Distilled  from  the  lierh  of  Oc/pnu)ii  Biniliciuit  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
L(tbiata'). 

The  oil  has  an  aromatic  odor.  That  fro: a  fresh  German  herb  has 
a  specific  gravity  of  0.918  to  ().'J28,  wliile  tiiat  from  Reunion  is  0.946 
to  0.967,  and  has  an  optical  rotation  of  -|-1*^  ■  The  oil  has  not  yet 
been  chemically  examined. 

Oil  of  Beecli  Tar. 

(Gtvmaii :  Bufhciithcer-Oel.) 

Obtained  by  the  fractional  distillation  of  Beech  Tar,  the  latter 
being  a  product  of  the  dry  distillation  (jf  the  wood  of  Fagnu  sdva- 
tica  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Ciqndifera'). 

The  ligJtt  oil,  which  is  usually  employed,  has  a  sjiecitic  gravity  of 
0.980,  and  distills  between  SV  and  2.j()'  C.  The  main  portion  distills 
between  150"  and  2o0'  C,  and  consists  of  from  one-third  to  one-half 
of  phenols  and  phenol-ethers. 

The  lieai-ij  oil  has  a  specific  gravity  of  l.Oo:!  It  distills  between 
320°  and  300'  C,  and  contains  about  66  per  cent,  of  phenols. 

Oil  of  Beech  Tar  has  been  used  in  lung  diseases. 

Oil  of  Betle  Leaves. 

{German:  Betel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Piper  Betle  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Pipenieew). 

The  oil  has  a  light  brown  color,  an  agreeable  tea-like  odor,  and 
a  burning  taste.  The  oil  of  dried  leaves  from  Siani  has  a  specific 
gravity  of  1.034,  that  of  fresh  leaves  from  Manila  1.044,  and  that  of 
fresh  leaves  from  Java  0.958,  and  an  optical  rotation  of  -(-3"  53'.  The 
oil  contains  betle-phenol  or  para-eugenol  CoHa  (Cs  H5)(OH)(OCH3), 
cadinene  CisHai,  and  sometimes  para- allyl-i^henol  or  chavicol  Ce  H4 
(0H)(C3  H.,).  (See  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericht,  April,  1890,  p.  6,  October, 
1891,  p.  5,  and  Journ.  filr  praM.  Cheniie,  N.  F.,  1889,  p.  349.) 

Oil  of  Birch  Tar  {Olema  Jiusci). 

(German:  Roctilieirtes  Birkontheer-Oel.) 

Distilled  fi"om  Birch  Tar  ((7er»Hni ;  Juchten-Oel),  the  latter  being  a 
product  of  the  dry  distillation  of  t!ie  wood  of  Bit  aid  ((Uxiluinne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Cupuliferce). 

A  yellowish- brown  liquid,  having  a  characteristic  odor,  like  that 
of  Russia  leather.     Specific  gravity  about  0.956.     It  contains  about  40 


44  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

jK.'r  ct'ut.  of  ])heuols,  wliich  hoil  l)et%veeu  180"  aud  250  C,  aud  cunsidt 
chiefly  of  guaiacol  aud  creosol,  with  small  amounts  of  cresol  aud 
xylenol.  Tlie  portiou  insoluble  in  alkalies  l)oils  lietween  170'  and 
288  C.  (See  Scliimmel  &  Co.'s  Berichf.  April.  1891,  p.  6.  aud  An-hiv 
(let-  Phanii..  1890.  j).  7i:l) 

Oil  of  lioldo  Leaves. 

(Geruuui :  BokloblStter-Oel. 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Boldoa  fragraiis  Gaj'  (Nat.  Ord. 
3Iou  im  iacecv). 

Tlie  oil  has  a  reddish  yellow  color,  the  pepper-like,  narcotic  odor 
of  the  leaves,  and  a  inild,  herby  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.918  to 
0.945.  It  boils  between  175  and  250  C;.,  and  contains  terpenes  aud 
oxygenated  bodies. 

Tlie  oil  has  been  used  medicinally  in  affections  of  the  liver,  dys- 
pepsia, rlieumatisTu,   etc. 

Oil  of  Biigle  Weed. 

{(Icniiaii :  Lyi!Oi)us-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  dry  herb  of  Lycopns  Virginicus  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Ldhidtd'). 

The  oil  has  a  cliaracteristic  odor,  which  is  difficult  to  define. 
Specific  gravity  0.924.  It  has  not  j'et  been  chemically  examined. 
The  herb  is  said  to  possess  mild  narcotic  properties. 

Oil  of  IJucliu. 

{(jcriiuin  :  JBuecublSttcr-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Barosma  serratifoUd  Willdenow  and 
Barosma  hetulitut  Bartling  (Nat.  Ord.  lintacece). 

The  oil  has  a  strong  mint-like  odor.  That  from  B.  sermtifoUa 
has  a  specific  gx'avity  of  0.944,  and  contains  but  little  of  the  crystal- 
lizable  diosphenol  CioHmOa.  The  oil  from  B.  betnlina  contains  a 
large  amount  of  diosphenol,  and,  after  the  separation  of  the  latter  at 
ordinary  temperatives,  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.969.  There  is  also 
present  in  the  oil  a  bod}^  of  the  composition  CioHisO,  having  a 
peppcrmiut-like  odor. 

Oil  of  ("alaiiius 

{(irriiKUi :  Caliinis-Oe'l.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  of  Acorns  CaloDi.ns  Linne,  "Sweet 
Flag'  (Nat.  Ord.  Aroidece). 

A  clear,  somewhat  thick,  brownish-yellow  liquid,  liaviug  a  strongly 
aromatic  odor,  and  an  aromatic,  bitter  taste.  The  oil  from  fresh 
Gennan   calamus    has    a    specific    gravity   of   0.960    to    0.970,   aud   au 


NON- OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  45 

optical  rotation  of  -j-SO  to  +31  >  wliile  tliat  from  the  dry  drug  lias 
a  specific  gravity  of  0.960  to  0.980,  and  an  optical  rotation  of  -(-15 '  to 
-\-2V.  The  oil  appears  to  contain  piuene  and  a  sesquiterpene,  a  body 
of  the  composition  Cio  Hi 6  O,  a  high  boiling  fraction  of  a  bluish  color, 
and  a  very  small  amount  of  a  phenol. 

Oil  of  Calamus  is  used  to  a  small  extent  medicinally  as  a  tonic 
and  carminative,  but  chiefly  in  the  preparation  of  liquors. 

Oil  of  Japanese  Calamus  is  characterized  by  a  higher  specific 
gravity,  0.985  to  1.00,  and  by  its  much  greater  solubility  in  dilute 
alcohol. 

Oil  of  Camphor. 

(GcrhKiii :  ( 'umphor-Oel.) 

The  crude  Japaiiese  Camphor  Oil  is  obtained  as  a  by-product  in 
the  preparation  of  common  camphor,  by  the  distillation  of  the  wood 
of  Cinnamomiivi.  C\tm}>h<)ra.  fLinne)  Nees  et  Ebermaier  (Nat.  Ord. 
Lauracea'). 

It  is  an  exceedingly  complex  substance,  and  contains,  according 
to  the  researches  conducted  in  the  laboratories  oi  Messrs.  Schimmel 
&  Co.,  of  Leipsic,  the  following  bodies: 

Pinene,                                       Ci,,  His Boiling  point  158-162"  C. 

Phellandrene,                           CioHu; "  "  about  170"  C. 

Cineol,                                   CoH.sO "  "  176"  C. 

Dipentene,                                Co  Hi,-, "  "  180°  C. 

Camphor,                               C, „  H, „  O "  "  204'  C. 

Terpineol  (?),                  Co  Hi,  -  OH "  "  215-218°  C. 

Safrol,                                  CoHioOo "  "  232°  C. 

Eugenol,                               CoHi,0, "  "  248°  C. 

Sesquiterpene   (Cadinene),    Cis  H-ji "  "  274°  C. 

By  fractional  distillation  the  original  crude  oil  affords  the  com- 
mercial Light  Camphor  Oil,  specific  gravity  about  0.920,  and  the 
so-called  Heavy  Cainphor  Oil,  specific  gravity  aliout  0.970. 

Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.,  of  Leipsic,  have  also  distilled  in  their 
own  factory,  from  crude  material  obtained  from  Japan,  the  following: 

Oil  of  Camphor  Leaves  and  Oil  of  Camphor  Koot. 

Both  of  these  oils  contained  a  large  amount  of  camphor,  and  the 
liquid  portion  separated  thei'efrom  has  the  properties  of  the  above 
mentioned,  ordinary  camphor  oil  of  commerce. 

Oil  of  Canada  Snake  Root, 

see  Oil  of  Asarnni  Canadense. 


40  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Caiiaiiiia,  Java. 

i'Jeiman  :  Caiiunsa-Oel,  Java.) 

Distilled  from  the  flowers  of  Caiiamjn  odoratii  Hooker  lil.  et 
ThoinsoM  (Nat.  Ord.  Aiionaceo'). 

The  Cananga  flowers  are  tnown  by  the  natives  of  the  South  Sea 
Islands  as  "Mosoi."  The  oil  has  a  yellowish  color,  and  an  exceedingly 
agreeable  odor;  which  renders  it  valuable  as  a  perfume.  The  odor, 
however,  is  not  nearly  so  delicate  as  that  of  the  so-called  "Ylang- 
Ylang  Oil,"  which  is  distilled  in  JIauila  from  the  same  plant  (see  Oil 
"of  YhiiKj-Ylaiif) ;  also  Sc-himmel  &  Co.'s  Ben'clit,  October,  1887,  p.  7, 
and  "  Odorographia  "'  by  Sawer,  p.  117). 

Oil  of  Cananga  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.910  to  0.920.  It  con- 
tains an  ester  of  benzoic  acid. 

Oil  of  Caiiella. 

{Ucrmaii :  Canella-Oel  or  Weisszimuit-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Candid  alha  INIurray  (Nat.  Ord.  Canel- 
lacece). 

The  oil  lias  a  spicy  t)dor  and  taste.  Specific  grayity  0.922.  It 
contains  cineol  and  eugenol. 

Oil  of  Cartlainom. 

(dermmi  :  C"arihiiuonien-()el.) 

Distilled  frfan  the  seed  of  Ehtttaria  rcpens  (Sonnerat)  Baillou 
(Nat.  Ord.  Scilaniiuece). 

Tlie  oil  has  a  pale  j-ellow  color,  and  a  stronglj'  aromatic,  some- 
what camphoraceous  odor  and  taste.  Si^ecific  gravity  0.895  to  0.905. 
Optical  rotation  about  -|-13".  It  contains  terpinene,  possiblj'  dipeutene, 
a  body  of  the  composition  CioHi^O  (terpineol '?),  and  acetic  and  formic 
acids.  The  oil  affords  a  clear  solution  with  one  or  more  i)arts  of  80 
per  cent,  alcohol. 

Oil  of  Cardamom  is  u.sed  chieHy  in  tlie  preparation  of  licpiors. 

Oil  of  Carliua. 

{(Icrmnn  :  Eberwurz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  CarliiHi  (u-avlis  Linue  (Nat.  Ord.  ('<))u- 
2)0sitce). 

The  oil  has  a  dark  reddisli-bro\\u  color,  and  a  narcotic  odor. 
Specific  gi'avity  1.033  to  1.036.  Its  constituents  have  not  yet  been 
determined. 

Oil  of  Carrot,  ^Vild. 

(German :  Daucus-Oel  or  ^^ohrensamerl-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  tlie  fruit  of  Danciiif  Carota  Linne  iNat.  Ord. 
Z''))ibeUifer(i'\. 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  47 

It  has  a  yellowish  color,  au  agreeable  earrot-like  odor,  aud  a  sharp 
taste.  Specific  gravity  0.87  to  0.93.  Optical  rotation  — 1'3  .  It  con- 
tains pinene,  and  a  body  of  the  corof)Ositiou  CioHisO,  which  is  possibly 
<'ineol. 

Oil  of  VsiHCA  preciosa. 

{German:  Casoa  prociosa-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  MespiJodnphne  pretiuaa  N.  et  M.  (Nat. 
Ord.  Lariracea']. 

It  has  a  strong  ciunanion-like  odor  and  a  bnruiug,  aromatic  taste. 
Specific  gravity  l.llS.  It  has  not  j'et  been  thoroughly  examined,  but 
appears  not  to  contain  cinnamic  aldehyde. 

Oil  of  C'asearilla. 

(German :  Cascarill-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Croton  Eluteria  Bennett  (Nat.  Ord. 
Eiiph  orbiacere). 

It  has  a  greenish  or  dark  yellow  color,  and  a  i)urely  aromatic 
odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravitj'  0.890  to  0.930.  It  has  not  yet 
been  sufficiently  examined  chemically  (see   Liebig's  Annitlni,  Bd.  35, 

p.  mri 

Oil  of  Catnip. 

{German :  Katzenminz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Nepeta  cataria  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Labiatic). 

This  oil  has  a  mint-  and  camphor-like,  but  not  particularly  agree- 
able odor.  Specific  gi-avit}^  L04L  It  has  not  yet  been  chemically 
examined. 

Oil  of  Cedar  Leaves,  Ainericaii. 

{Gcrtnan :  Cedornblatter-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  the  Red  Cedar,  Juniperus  Viryiiiiana 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Coniferce). 

A  colorless  liquid,  having  a  savine-like  odor.  Specific  gravity 
about  0.884.     Optical  rotation  — 8^  15'. 

The  above  characters  are  based  upon  the  examination  of  a  com- 
mercial oil,  but  an  oil  distilled  in  our  Garfield  factory,  from  leaves 
collected  in  late  autumn,  differs  considerably,  especially  with  regard 
to  its  rotation.  It  is  a  pale  greenish-yellow  liquid,  having  a  i^ersistent, 
but  not  disagreeable  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.880.  Optical  rotation 
-j-59°  5'.  It  has  not  yet  l)ee:i  chemically  examined.  The  medicinal 
properties  of  the  oil  are  prol)ably  similar  to  those  of  the  official  Oil 
of  Savine. 


48  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Oil  of  Cedar  ^Vood,  Florida. 

(German :  Cedernholz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  wood  of  Juniperus  Virginiana  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Coniferoi). 

A  pale  yellow  or  greenish-yellow,  thickish  licjuid,  having  a  char- 
acteristic, agreeable  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.940  to  0.960.  Optical 
rotation  — 20"  to  — 40\  Refractive  index  "jj  1.50507  at  IT  C.  It  con- 
tains cadinene  CisH^j,  and  cedar  camphor  CioH-eO. 

The  oil  is  used  largely  for  perfuming  ordinary  soap. 

Oil  of  Cedar  Wood,  for  microscopical  p>nr poses,  has  the  refractive 
index  n^  1.51683  at  17°  C. 

Oil  of  Cedar  Wood,  Lebanon. 

(German:  Cedernholz-Oel,  Libsiiion.) 

Distilled  from  the  wood  of  Cedriis  Libani  Barr  (Nat.  Ord.  Coni- 
ferce). 

The  oil  has  a  brownish-yellow  color,  and  a  very  agreeable,  cedar- 
like odor.     Specific  gravity  0.985.     Optical  rotation  — 10°  48'. 

Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  have  also  distilled  the  following  oils 
from  woods  of  uncertain  botanical  origin.  (See  Bericht,  April,  1892, 
p.  41): 

Oil  of  Cedar  Wood,  Corinto. 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color.  Specific  gravity  0.906.  Optical  rota- 
tion     17°  23'. 

Oil  of  Cedar  Wood,  Cuba. 

The  oil  has  a  slightly  yellowish  color.  Specific  gravity  0.923. 
Optical  rotation  -|-18    6'.     It  contains  cadinene  CisH-ji. 

Oil  of  Cedar  Wood,  La  Plata. 

The  oil  has  a  light  blue  color.  Sjjecific  gravity  0.928.  Ojrtically 
inactive. 

Oil  of  Cedar  Wood,  Punta  Arenas. 

The  oil  has  a  light  blue  color.  Specific  gravity  0.915.  Optical 
rotation  — 5°  53'.     It  consists  chief!}-  of  cadinene  C15H24. 

Oil  of  Celery. 

(flrrman :  Sellerie-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Apiiim  graveolens  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
UvibelUfcra'). 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  49 

Tile  oil  lias  a  yfllowish  color,  and  the  characteristic  odor  aud 
taste  of  celery.  Specific  gravity  0.880  to  0.890.  Optical  rotation 
-|-67'  4'.  It  contains  dexti'ogyrate  linionene,  but  no  pinene.  An 
adulteration  with  oil  of  turpentine  may  thus  readily  be  detected. 

Oil  of  Chamomile,  German. 

(German:  Chamillon-Oel,  Deutsch.) 

Distilled  from  the  flower  heads  of  Motrin  aid  ChdtuotuUht  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  ComposiUe). 

The  oil  has  at  first  a  bluisli  color,  which,  by  exposure  to  light, 
changes  to  green  and  l)rown.  It  has  the  characteristic  odor  of  cham- 
omile, and  a  bitterish,  aromatic  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.930  to  0.945. 
At  a  low  temperature  the  oil  solidifies  to  a  butter-like  mass,  which  is 
due  to  the  i)resence  of  a  paratifin  like  body,  having  in  a  pure  state  a 
melting  point  of  53" — 54'  C.  The  oil  appears  to  contain  esters,  but  it 
has  not  yet  been  sufficiently  examined  (see  Ber.  d.  deutsdi.  cheni.  Ges., 
4,  p.  36:  also  Schimmel  &  Go's  Bcricht,  April,  1894,  p.  13). 

Oil  of  Chamomile,  Roman. 

(German:  Chamillcn-Ocl,  Kiiioisch.) 

Distilled  from  the  flower  heads  of  Aiifliriiiis  iioJulis  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Co)it2)osit(:e). 

The  oil  has  at  first  a  bluish  color,  which  changes  to  greenish- 
yellow  or  brownish  yellow.  It  has  a  strong,  agreeable  odor,  and 
burning  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.905  to  0.915.  It  contains  the  iso- 
butyl  esters  of  isobutyric  and  angelic  acids,  the  amyl  esters  of  tiglic 
and  angelic  acids,  the  hexyl  esters  of  tiglic  and  angelic  acids,  aud 
anthemol  C,„H,r,  O.    (See  Liebig's  Annaleii,  Bd.  195,  1879,  p.  78.) 

Oil  of  Champaca. 

(German  :  <_'haiuiiac"i-(.)fl.) 

Distilled   in  Java  from   the  flowers  of  Michdia  Chainpaca  Linne 

A  thin,  pale  yellcnv  liquid,  having  an  odor  reminding  somewhat 
of  oil  of  orris.     Specific  gravity  0.914.     Optical  rotation  — 13    14'. 

x\n  oil  received  some  years  ago  from  Manila,  which  had  been 
distilled  from  freshly  gathered  Champaca  flowers,  was  of  quite  a 
different  character  from  the  above  described  Java  oil.  It  had  a 
reddish-yellow  color,  and  an  incomparable  fragrance,  somewjiat  re- 
minding of  cassie  flowers.  Even  at  ordinary  temperatures  an  abund- 
ance of  crystals  separated  from  this  oil.  (See  Schimmel  &  Co.'s 
Beridd,  April,  1894,  p.  58.) 

The  flowers  of  Midielia  longifolia,  which  have  likewise  been  dis- 
tilled in  Java,  afford  a  nearly  colorless  essential  oil.  This  is  very 
volatile,    and    has    an    odor    strongly    reminding    of    basilicum.      Ite 


50  XOX  OFFICIAI.   ESSENTIAL   (IILS. 

sp.rilic  gravity  is  O.ss;;.     Optiral   rotation    —12     50'.     {Bevk-lit,  April, 
l«!t4.  p.  59.) 

Oil  of  Cliekeii  Leaves. 

(Gcriiiun  :  Clickeiililiiin'r-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Mjirtiiji  Clicken  (Nat.  Ord.   Mijrtacere). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish  or  greenish  color,  and  an  agreeable,  aro- 
matic odor.  Specific  gravity  0.879.  Optically  dextrogyrate.  It  con- 
sists chiefly  of  2)inene,  with  some  cineol,  and  an  undetermined  higher 
boiling  ('220    to  280    C.)  portion. 

Oil  of  Cherry  Laurel. 

{(jcriiKOi :  Kirschlorl)for-()el.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Pnams  L<(>n-()-cfV(isiis  Linue  (Nat. 
Ord.  Rosacea'). 

Specific  gravity  l.O."),")  to  l.Ofi.").  It  contains  bt nzaldehyde,  hydro- 
cyanic acid  (al)out  o  i)er  cent.)  and  benzyl  alcohol.  It  is  therefore 
similar  in  com]iosition  to  bitter  almond  oil. 

It  is  used  chiefly  in  the  preparation  of  liquors. 

Oil  of  Cistus. 

[Geriiutii  :  Cistus-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  southern  Spain  from  the  leaves  of  Cisfus  ladaniferns 
Dinne  (Nat.  Ord.  Cistaceir}. 

The  oil  has  a  (lisagreeal)le,  nai-cotic  odor.  Sjieciflc  gravity  0.925. 
It  boils  between  105  and  280'  C,  l)ut  has  not  yet  been  chemically 
<'.\'amined. 

Oil  of  Citroiiella. 

(German :  CitronoU-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  India  from  the  grass  of  species  of  Aii()ro]>0(i(y)i,  tisually 
referred  to  ^4.  Aanliis  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Gndiiriied'). 

A  limpid,  yellowish  t)r  greenish-yellow,  or,  when  rectified,  nearly 
colorless  liquid,  having  a  very  agreeable  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.895 
to  0.910.  The  chemical  invetitigations  of  this  oil  present  somewhat 
varying  results,  which  may  no  doubt  be  explained  in  ])art  by  the 
supposition  that  the  oil  is  not  of  constant  conq)ositiou,  and  not  always 
the  product  of  a  single  plant  species. 

E.  Kremers  {Proc.  Amer.  Pharm.  Assoc,  1887,  pp.  563-578)  found 
the  oil  to  contain  a  terpene,  heptoic  aldehyde  CtHhO,  fractions 
boiling  at  217-2:2,  and  222-230"  C.  respectively,  and  having  the 
conq)i)sition  Ci„HimO,  which  were  designated  as  citroHcIIol,  and  acetic 
and  valerianic  acids  in  the  form  of  esters  (.see  also  Kremers,  Ainei: 
Chrm.  Jonni  ,  XIV,  pp.  2();5-212;  Dodge,  Utidem.,  XI,  p.  456,  XII,  p. 
558;  Semmler,  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  chem.  Ges.,  24,  p.  208,  26,  p.  2254). 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  51 

Messrs.  Schiiuinel  &  Co.  {Bericht,  October,  1888,  p.  16,  October, 
1893,  p.  11,  April,  1894,  p.  \~i)  have  fouud  iu  tliis  oil:  camphene, 
dipentene,  geraniol  CulHl^O,  citronellal  d,,  Hi„0  (see  the  latter, 
under  Chemical  Prepara,tions,  Part  III),  aud  from  1  to  3  per  cent,  of 
lajvogyrate  borneol  doHi^O. 

Oil  of  Citronella  has  heretofore  been  largely  adulterated,  even  iu 
India,  and  especially  with  fatty  oils  aud  petroleum.  These  may  be 
detected  by  the  following  simple  and  reliable  test,  proposed  by  Messrs. 
Schiunuel  &  Co. :  If  1  Cc.  of  the  oil  be  vigorously  shaken  in  a  glass- 
sto2)pered  cylinder  or  well  corked  test  tube  with  10  Cc.  of  alcohol,  of 
80  per  cent,  by  volume,  it  should  form  a  clear  or  only  slightly  opal- 
escent solution,  from  which  on  standing  for  at  least  twelve  hours  no 
oil  dro]«  should  separate,  either  on  the  surface  or  at  the  bottom  of 
the  liquid. 

Oil  of  Citronella  is  used  chiefly  for  its  agreeable  perfume,  in 
soaps,  etc. 

Oil  of  Citronella  Fruit. 

(Gtiniaii :  ('itroiK'Hfriicliti'-f  )fl.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Tetraidherii  cifnifa  Nees  (Nat.  Ord. 
Lauraceie). 

This  oil  has  an  agreeable,  verbena-like  odor,  and  has  therefore 
been  designated  Oil  of  Vcrhemt.  Java.  Specihc  gravity  0.894.  It  ct)n- 
tains  citral  and  a  ter})ene. 

Oil  of  Clove  Root. 

(German :  Nelkfii\vurz-Of  1.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Geinii  iirhainnii,  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Ronacece). 

The  oil  has  an  exceedingly  agreeable,  cinnamon-like  odor,  aud 
a  spicy  taste.     It  has  nt)t  yet  been  further  examined. 

Oil  of  Cochlearia,  Synthetic. 

[German:  Luttelkraut-Ool,  Synthetisch.) 

This  is  identical  with  the  chief  constituent  of  the  oil  of  scurvy- 
grass  {Cochlearia  officinalis  Linne,  Nat.  Ord.  Cracifera').  It  ii  the 
isosulphocyanate  of  secondary  butyl  alcohol,  or  secondary'  butyl  thio- 
carbimide,  CSN— CH  (C^  H.,)CH:,.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.944  at  12'  C. 
and  boiling  point  159"  to  160"  C. 

A  good  S^nritus  Coehlearice  may  be  made  by  dissolving  2  grammes 
of  the  oil  in  1  kilo  of  70  per  cent,  (by  volume)  alcohol. 

It  may  be  noted  that  in  commerce  a  mixture  consisting  simply 
of  the  oil  of  nuistard  aud  oil  of  rue  is  frequently  sold  as  Oil  of 
Cochlearia,  but  which  has  not  the  properties  of  the  true  oil. 


9 

52  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

.Oil  of  Coiiiiac,  Artificial,  see   Ether,    Oenautliic,   under 
Chemieal   Preparations,  Part   III. 

Oil  of  Costus. 

{(xerinan :  Costus-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Costiis  sjjcciosas  (Nat.  Onl.  Zinr/iberacece). 

The  oil  lias  a  jiale  yellow  color,  and  an  odor  reminding  at  first 
of  elecampane,  but  whieli  after  some  hours  becomes  violet-like.  Specific 
gravity  0.982.  Optical  rotati(jn  -flo'  29'.  It  begins  to  b(jil  at  27.')  C., 
and  at  a  somewhat  higlier  temperature  complete  decomposition  ensues. 
It  lias  not  yet  been  more  tlioroughly  extimined,  but  appears  to  have 
only  scientific  interest. 

Oil  of  Coto  Bark,  Para. 

{German :  Paracotoriiuk-n-Oel.) 

The  botanical  origin  of  this  bark  is  unknown.  Tlie  oil  is  color- 
less, and  has  an  agreeable  odor.  That  distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel 
&  Co.  has  a  specific  gravity  of  1.018,  and  optical  rotation  -\-~y  40'.  It 
is  soluble  in  three  times  its  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol.  The  oil 
contains  chiefly  cadinene  Ci.=,Hj4,  and  methyl-eugenol.  (See  Liebig's 
AiiHdh'ii.  271,  p.  800,  and  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  cliem.  Ges.,  26,  p.  2794.) 

Oil  of  Cumin. 

{German:  Ciimin-Oel  or  Romisch-kiimmcl  Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Cumiimni  Cymmnni  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Uinbellifera'). 

The  oil  is  a  colorless  or  yellowish,  limpid  liquid,  having  the 
characteristic  odor  of  cumin,  and  a  sharp,  spicy  taste.  Specific  grav- 
ity 0.890  to  0.980.  It  contains  cyiiiol  CjoHu,  and  cumin  alde- 
liyde  C,„H,,0. 

Oil  of  Curcuma. 

(Gfrinan  :  Curcuma-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  of  Ciirciuna  Tonga  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Zingiberacece). 

The  oil  is  limpid,  has  a  lemon-yellow  color,  a  penetrating  odor, 
and  a  burning  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.942.  It  contains  i)liellandrene, 
and  apparently  a  body  isomeric  with  carvol  (',„H,,  O.  It  has  found  as 
yet  but  little  practical  use. 

Oil  of  Cuscus,  see  Oil  of  Yetiver. 


NON  OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL  OILS.  o:5 

Oil  of  Dam i mm. 

(GiTmaii :  Damiana-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Tnrnera  microphylht  D.  C.  (Nat.  Ord. 
Turneracece). 

The  oil  is  a  greenish,  thick,  viscid  liquid,  having  a  chanioniile-like 
odor.  Specific  gravity  0.986.  It  boils  between  250"  and  310"'  C,  and 
contains  in  the  higher  boiling  portion  a  blue  oil.  Its  composition  and 
l)roperties  have  not  been  further  determined. 

Oil  of  Daucus,  see  Oil  of  Carrot,  Wild. 
Oil  of  Dilem  Leaves. 

(German:  Dilem-Oel.) 

The  botanical  origin  of  these  leaves,  obtained  from  Java,  is  un- 
known. Tlie  oil  is  quite  thick,  has  a  yellowish-green  color,  and  an- 
odor  reminding  of  patchouli,  but  finer  and  fresher  than  the  latter. 
Specific  gravity  0.962.     It  boils  between  250    and  300"  C. 

Oil  of  Dill. 

{(icrinnn  :  Dill-Oel ) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Anethiini  graveolens  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
U)ii.1)eIIiferce). 

The  oil  has  a  pale  yellow  color,  a  characteristic,  penetrating  odor, 
and  at  first  a  sweetish,  afterwards  sharp  and  burning  taste.  Specific 
gravity  0.905  to  0.915.  Optical  rotation  +70'  to  -fSO  .  It  contains 
limonene  and  carvol.  The  oil  from  East  Indian  Dill  has  an  odor 
quite  different  from  German  Dill  Oil.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.970. 
Optical  rotation  -|-41  30'.  In  distinction  from  the  preceding  it  con- 
tains a  body  which  is  heavier  than  water.  (See  Schimmel  &  Co. 's 
Bericht,  October,  1891,  p.  12.) 

Oil  of  Dittany. 

((iirnum  :  Bittany-Oel  or  Cunila-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Cniiihi  Mariana,  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Labiat(T). 

It  has  a  reddish-yellow  color,  and  a  thyme-like  odor.  Si)ecific 
gravity  0.915.  It  contains  a  considerable  amount  of  a  phenol,  probably 
thymol,  but  has  not  yet  been  fvirther  examined. 

Oil  of  Elecampane. 

(Gcvma)i  :  Alant-Ool.) 

Distilled  froni  tlie  root  of  Inula  Helenium  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Co7n- 
positce). 


54  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

It  is  solid  at  onlinarv  temperatures,  and  c(jnsists  cliieflj'  of  alanto- 
lactone  (helenin)  ('u  II.j„(^() ,   witli  a  little  sesfiiiiterpene. 

Oil  of  Elemi. 

(OtriiKiu :  Eleiui-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  ^lanila  Elemi,  an  oleo-resin  of  uncertain  botanical 
origin.  The  oil  is  nearly  colorless,  and  lias  an  agreeably  ai'oniatic 
odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.87  to  0.90.  It  contains  phellan- 
drene  and  dipentene,  and  higher  boiling  bodies  which  probably  con- 
sist of  polyterpenes  and  oxygenated  compounds.  It  is  used  chiefly 
for  its  agreeable  perfume. 

Oil  of  Estrai^oii. 

{German :  Estraji'oii-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Artemisia  Dracnnculn-s  Linue  (Nat.  Onl. 
Compositce). 

The  oil  has  a  peculiar  odor,  and  a  mildly  aromatic  taste.  That 
distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.,  which  is  of  exceptionally  line 
quality,  has  a  specific  gravity  varj'ing  from  0.906  to  0.932,  and  an 
optical  rotation  of  -|-5"  15'  to  -j-S^  10',  while  some  commercial  oils  vary 
in  specific  gravity  from  0.920  to  0.9fi0,  with  an  optical  rotation  of 
+2^  32'  to  +2^  W'. 

The  oil  contains  i)ara-methoxy-allyl-benzol  C^Hi  (0CH3)CHi — 
CH=CH2,  which  is  isomeric  with  anethol,  and  can  be  converted  into 
the  latter  by  heating  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  i^otassium  hy- 
droxide. This  body  is  luidoubtedly  also  identical  with  the  so-called 
"Estragol."  (See  Compt.  rend.,  117,  p.  1189,  Ber.  d.  deufsch.  chem. 
Ges.,  22,  p.  2743,  and  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Berichf,  April,  1894,  p.  28.) 
Compare  also  Oil  of  Anise  Bark. 

Oil  of  (7}jilaii;;al. 

{(hrmaii :  Galyant-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  of  AJpiaia  offlcinarion  Hance  (Nat. 
Ord.   Scitauiine(t'). 

A  reddish  yellow  liquid,  having  an  aromatic,  cajuput-like  odor, 
and  a  strongly  camphoraceous  taste.  Specific  gravity  0,921.  Sligl\tly 
la;vogyrate.  It  contains  a  considerable  amount  of  cineol.  and  is  used 
to  a  slight  extent  medicinally. 

Oil  of  (lalbaniiin. 

{(lirmttn  :  Galb:uium-()fl.) 

Distilled  from  Galbanum,  a  gum-resin  obtained  from  Fenda 
gcdhaviflua)  Boissier  et  Eidise  (Nat.  Ord.  VmheUiferce). 


t 


NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  55 

The  oil  lias  a  light  yello%v  color,  aud  the  characteristic  odor  of 
the  drug.  Specific  graAity  <).!»10  to  U.9o().  It  boils  between  165'  and 
300^  ('.     It  contains  cadinene  CinHj4- 

Oil  of  Garlic. 

(Gcrmitn :  Kiioblavich-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bnlb  and  herb  of  Allium,  saflvitiii  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Liliacca'). 

Tlie  oil  has  a  yellowish  color,  and  a  characteristic,  exceedingly 
})enetrating  odor.     Specific  gravity  1.053.     It   contains   the   coniponml 

Cn  HijSo,  which  is  i)robably  allyl-propyl  disulphide  (  "  "i  \,  and 
C  HiuSj,    wl^ich   is    probably    diallyldisulphide    I   \    \)-    The  higher 

boiling  portions  contain  bodies  of  the  composition  C,;Hi„S:i  and 
CvHioSi  (see  Arcliio  der  PJiann.,  1893,  p.  434,  and  Schimmel  &  Co.'s 
BericJd,  April,  1893,  p.  34). 

The  oil  is  a  powerful  irritant  and  vesicant,  but  has  been  nsed  in 
minute  quantities  for  imparting  flavor  to  pickles  and  sauces.  One 
part  of   the  oil  represents   the  strength  of   about  1600  parts  of   garlic-. 

Oil  of  Oeraiiiniu  or  Rose  Geranium. 

{GcrnuiH :  Geranium-(  )el. ) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  several  species  of  Pelargonium,  especially 
P.  Radula  Aiton,  P.  capitutuhi  Alton,  and  P.  (xJorafis.^imum  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  Geraniacece). 

The  following  varieties  of  this  oil  are  distinguished  in  commerce : 
Algerian.     Specific  gravity  0.890  to  0.898.     Optical  rotation  — 7    to  —  9 
French.  "  "       0.894  to  0.899.  "  "         _9    to  — 13 

Reunion.  "  "        0.886  to  0.895.  "  "         _8   to— 11 

Sjxinish.  "  "  about  0.898.  "  "  about  —  8 

An  oil  distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co. ,  from  plants  cultivated 
in  Leipsic,  had  a  specific  gravity  of  0.906,  and  an  optical  rotation  of 
—16°. 

The  above  oils  have  a  pale  yellowish  or  greenish  (Reunion)  color, 
and  an  exceedingly  agreeable,  rose-like  odor,  which  render  tliem 
valuable  in  perfumery.  The  chief  constituent  of  the  oils  is  geraniol, 
C10H17-OH  (see  the  latter,  under  Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III), 
which  is  present  in  amounts  of  about  80  to  85  per  cent.  The  geraniol 
is  contained  in  the  oils  in  the  form  of  esters,  among  which  that  of 
tiglic  acid  predominates  (see  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Berichf,  April,  1894, 
p.  31). 

An  excellent  test  for  the  purity  of  the  Geranium  Oils,  and  wliicli 
may  serve   to   detect   adulterations   with   fatty  oils,  petroleum,    oil   cf 


ofi  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

turpentine,  etc. ,  is  their  property  of  f onning  a  perfectly  clear  solution 
witli  two  or  three  times  tlieir  volume  of  70  per  ceut.  alcoliol. 

Oil  of  Geniiiiuni,  East  Indian. 

fGcnnaii:  Geraiiiuui-Oel,  liidi?clif.s.) 

This  is  the  so-called  Turkisli  Geraniion  or  Pnintdrosd  Oil. 

It  is  distilled  iu  tlie  northern  jn-ovinces  of  India  from  the  grass  of  a 
species  of  Andropogoit  (regarded  as  ^4.  SclicentDifluis  Linne).  Nat.  Ord. 
Graminefe. 

A  nearly  colorless,  or  pale  yellowisli  liijuid.  Specitic-  gravity  0.890 
to  0.900.  Opticall}-  inactive  or  slightly  la?vogyrate  (0  to  about  — 2  ). 
It  consists  chiefly  of  geraniol  or  its  esters,  and,  like  the  preceding 
oils  of  geranium,  is  soluble  in  two  or  three  times  its  volume  of  70 
jier  cent,  alcohol. 

The  oil  is  valued  chiefly  for  its  agreeable  perfume. 

Oil  of  Ginger. 

(Gcrntaii :  Ing-wer-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  of  Zingiber  officinale  Roscoe  (Nat.  Ord. 
Scitanmiece). 

The  oil  has  a  pale  yellowish  color,  the  characteristic  odor  of 
ginger,  and  an  aromatic,  somewhat  burning  taste.  Specific  gravity 
0.880  to  0.885.  Optical  rotation  —2o  to  — 40  .  Its  chemical  constituents 
have  not  yet  been  suflficiently  investigated,  but  IMessrs.  Schimmel  & 
Co.  (Bericht,  October,  1S98,  p.  22,  and  April.  1894.  p.  33)  have  shown  it 
to  contain  canipliene  and  pheJJandrene. 

It  is  used  chiefly  in  the  ]ireparation  of  liquors. 

Oil  of  (linger  Grass. 

((itriuan  :  Ging'orgrass-Oel.) 

This  appears  to  l)e  derived  from  the  same  botanical  source  as  the 
East  Indian  or  so-called  Turkisli  Geranium  Oil  (see  above).  It  is 
however,  a  less  valuable  i>roduct,  and  is  often  grossly  adulterated, 
especially  with  fatty  oils  (see  Schimmel  &  Co. 's  Bericht,  April.  1804, 
p.  31). 

Oil  of  Golden  Rod. 

(Germnn  :  GoldnitluTi-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Soliclago  oclora  Alton  (Nat.  Ord.  Coiii. 
jMsitce). 

This  is  the  oil  of  the  so-called  "sweet-scented  golden  rod."  It 
has  a  pale  greenish-yellow  color,  and  a  strongly  aromatic  odor.  Specific 
/gravity  0.963.     It  appears  not  to  have  been  further  examined. 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  o? 

No  less  than  40  distinct  species  of  Solidago,  or  "  Gokleu  Rod," 
occui'  in  North  America,  east  of  the  Rocky  Mountains.  In  addition 
to  the  above  mentioned  species,  we  have  distilled  the  flowering  herb 
of  Solidago  Canadensis  Linne.  This  yields  a  i)ale  yellowish-green 
oil,  having  an  agreeably  aromatic  odor.  Specific  gravity  O.SoD. 
Oi)tical  rotation  — 11  10'.  A  partial  examination  of  the  oil,  made  in 
our  Garfield  laboratories,  has  shown  it  to  consist  chiefly  of  terpenes, 
among  which  pinene  and  phellandrene  have  thus  far  been  identified. 

Oil  of  Ground  Ivy. 

(Gcnnan :  Guiidennaniikraut-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  dried  herlj  of  Glechoma  hederacea  Linne  (Nat 
Ord.  Labiatce). 

The  oil  has  a  dark  green  color,  and  an  odor  which  is  difficult  to 
define,  but  by  no  means  agreeable.     Specific  gravity  0.925. 

Oil  of  Guaiacum  Wood. 

{Ginnnn:  Guaiacholz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  wood  of  an  undetermined  species  of  Guaiacum 
from  South  America,  where  it  is  known  as  "Balsam  Wood"  (Palo 
halsamo). 

The  oil  is  excejitionally  thick  and  viscid,  has  an  exceedingly 
agreeable  violet-  and  tea-like  odor,  and  at  ordinary  temperatures 
assumes  a  crystalline  character.  The  crystalline  l)ody  is  of  alcoliolic 
nature,  melts  at  91  C,  and  appears  to  have  the  composition  Ci4Ho40 
or  C,.,H.,«0. 

The  oil  is  ^■aluable  as  a  perfume,  and  is  used  in  both  floral 
extracts  and  soaps. 

An  oil  recently  brought  into  connnerce  under  the  fanciful  name 
of  "  Champaca  Oil"  or  " Champaca-wood  Oil"  has  not  the  slightest 
similarity  with  true  Champaca  Oil  (see  the  latter)  from  the  flowers 
of  MicheUa  Champaca  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  MagnoUocea'),  ])ut  is  perfectly 
identical  with  tiie  above  descril)ed  Guaiacum  Wood  Oil.  The  so-called 
"Champacol"  is  also  nothing  more  than  the  above  described  crj'stal- 
line  alcohol.  (.See  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  BericJit,  April,  1S92,  p.  42,  and 
April,  1893,  p.  32.) 

Oil  of  Hedychiuiii. 

{German  :  Hed5'chium-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  Java  from  the  flowers  of  Hedijcliium  Coronarium 
Linne. 

It  has  an  exceedingly  pleasant,  but  very  mild  odor.  Specific 
gravity  0.869.     Optical  rotation  —0"  28'. 


58  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Helifhr.vsum. 

(Gennan  :  Hflichrysuiii-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fio\verin<;-  lierh  of  HcIicltrf/sKiii  Stiechas  (Nat. 
Orel.  Coinponitce). 

It  has  an  odor  reiuiudiug  of  oils  from  the  Couifera'.  Specific 
gravity  0.873.  It  boils  chiefly  between  155  and  170  ('.,  and  prob- 
ably contains  considerable  pinene. 

Oil  of  Hemlock. 

(German :  Hemloc;ktanncii-(  )el.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  and  twigs  of  Tsuga  canadensis  Carr. 
(Abies  Canadensis  Michx.).     Nat.  Ord.  ('oniferce. 

A  colorless  liquid,  of  agreealile  odor,  much  resembling  the  0/7 
()/■  Sjjruce,  and  probably  similar  to  the  latter  in  composition.  Specific 
gravit}^  about  0.913.     Optical  rotation  — 23'  55'. 

This  oil  appears  to  be  frequently  confused  widi  the  true  Oil  of 
Spruce  from  the  fact  that  the  tree  affording  it  is  sometimes  known 
as  "Hemlock  Spruce."  It  appears  not  to  have  been  chemically 
examined.  The  true  Oil  of  Spruce  (see  the  latter)  is  obtained  from  a 
different  botanical  source. 

Oil  of  Heracleiim. 

(Gcnnnii :  IIcraeleiim-()el.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Heracleum  Sphondi/linm  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Umbellifene). 

The  oil  has  a  pale  yellow  color,  and  an  acid  reaction.  Specific 
gravity  0.80  to  0.87.  It  boils  between  80'  and  300  C,  and  contains 
a  number  of  esters.  The  following  compounds  are  stated  to  be  con- 
tained in  the  oil:  ethyl  and  but^d  acetates,  ethyl  and  hexyl  alcohols, 
and  octyl  capronate.  (See  Liebig's  Annalen,  153,  1869,  p.  1;  185,  1877, 
I..  26;  and  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  cheni.  Ges.,  9,  1876,  p.  998.) 

Oil  of  Hops. 

{Gennnu  :  Ildplcn-Oel.) 

Di.stilled  from  tlie  strobiles  of  Hidnuliis  Liipulus  Linne  (Nat  Ord. 
Urticace(e). 

The  oil  has  a  greenish  color,  and  a  strong,  penetrating  odor  of 
hops.  Specific  gravity  0.855  to  0.880.  Its  constituents  have  not  yet 
been  sufficiently  examined.  It  has  been  used  for  imparting  aroma 
to  beer. 

Oil  of  Horseiiiint. 

(German :  Monarden-Oel.) 
Distilled  from   the   herb   of   Monarda  punetata    Linne   (Nat.   Ord. 

L(d>ia1(r). 


NON-OFFICIx\L   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  59 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish-red  or  brownish-red  color,  and  a  strong, 
thyme-like  odor.  Specitic  gravity  0.'J30  to  0.936.  It  contains  thymol 
a  terpene,  and  apparently  the  formic,  acetic  and  butyric  esters  of  an 
alcohol  of  the  composition  do  His  O.  (See  Amer.  Juiirn.  Pharia.,  18H8, 
p.   120.) 

It  is  used  chiefly  in  liniments. 

Oil  of  Hyssop. 

(dcnnan  :  Ls()p-(.)el  ) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Hyssoptis  offlcinalifi  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
L(tbiat(c). 

Specific  gravity  about  0.932.  It  appears  not  to  have  been 
chemically  examined. 

It  is  used  medicinally,  ami  in  the  preparation  of  liquoi'S. 

Oil  of  Iiiiperatoria,  see  Oil  of  Masterwort. 
Oil  of  Iva. 

{Oerman:  Iva-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  flowering  herb  of  Acldllea  moschafa  Wulfen 
(Nat.  Ord.  Compositce). 

A  very  aromatic  oil,  of  a  bluish-green  color.  Specific  gravity 
about  0.934. 

It  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  the  Swiss  Iva  liquor. 

Oil  of  Jaboraiidi. 

(ircriiMa:  Jiibonindi-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Pilocarpu.-i  i^anatifolmx  Lemaire  (Nat. 
Ord.  Ri(tacece). 

The  oil  has  a  bright  yellow  color,  a  penetrating  odor,  and  a  mild 
taste.  Specific  gravity  0.875.  It  boils  between  180  and  290  C.  The 
portion  distilling  above  260  C.  solidifies  in  the  cold,  and  contains  a 
solid  paraffin-like  substance  which  melts  at  27    to  28    C. 

No  use  appears  to  have  yet  been  made  of  this  oil. 

Oil  of  Ktempfeiia. 

(German :  Kiempferia-C  )el. ) 

Distilled  in  Java  from  the  rhizome  of  K<enipferia  rotunda  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  Zingiberacecv). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  and  an  odor  which  is  at  first  camphor- 
like, afterward  reminding  of  estragon  oil.  Specific  gravity  0.945. 
Optical  rotation  -fi:]  4'.  The  only  constituent  of  the  oil  thus  far 
identified  is  cineol,  but  the  odor  indicates  that  it  may  also  ccmtain 
niethyl-chavicol.     (See  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericht,  April,  1894,  p.  57.) 


60  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Oil  of  Kesso,  sw  Oil  of  Taleriaii,  Japanese. 
Oil  of  Kiku. 

[dcruKiu  :  Kiku-Ool.) 

Distilled  in  Japan  from  the  leaves  of  Pip-etltriim  indiviun  Cass. 
(Nat.  Ord.  Comp(mt(v). 

A  colorless  oil,  having  a  cani])hor-like  odor,  reminding  somewhat 
of  eucalyptus.  Specific  gravity  0.885.  It  boils  l)etween  1G5  and 
175=  C. 

The  oil  is  an  esteemed  domestic  remedy  in  Japan,  where  it  is 
known  as  A})iiva  Knkii. 

Oil  of  Kuro-moji. 

(German:  Kuromo.ji-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  Ja])an  from  the  wood  of  Lindern  nericea  Blume  (Nat. 
Ord.  Lauracecv). 

The  oil  has  a  fine,  aromatic,  balsamic  odor.  Specific  gravity  it.S92. 
Optical  rotation  — 0"  4'.  It  contains  dexti'ogyrate  limonene,  dipentene, 
terjiineol,  and  la?vogyrate  carvol.  (See  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  cheni.  (tcs..  24, 
1891,  p.  81.) 

It  is  of  value  in  ])erfumery,  and  especially  for  perfuming  soaps. 

Oil  of  Ladaiium. 

(German :  Ladanum-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  gum-resin  of  Cistns  creficus  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Cistacece). 

The  oil  has  a  golden-yellow  color,  and  a  fine,  aml)ergris-like  odt)r. 
Specific  gravity  1.011.  It  separates  a  crystalline  l)0(ly  on  standing. 
The  oil  has  not  yet  been  chemically  examined,  but  is  doubtless  of 
value  in  jjerfumery. 

Oil  of  Laurel. 

(Gcrmcvi :  Lorbeor-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  or  the  berries  of  Laiirus  ))obiIis  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  Lauracexe). 

This  oil,  whether  obtained  from  the  leaves  or  berries,  appears  to 
be  essentially  the  same,  although  that  from  the  leaves  has  the  finer 
aroma.  Specific  gravity  0.924  (fi-om  leaves),  0.925  (fi"om  berries). 
Both  oils  contain  pinene  and  cineol,  and  apparently  a  sescjuiterpene. 
(See  Liebig's  Aiauden,  252,  p.  94.) 

Oil  of  Laurel,  Califoruiau. 

(German:  Lorboer-Oel,  Calif ornischcs.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Oreodaphne  Californmt  (Nat.  Ord. 
Lauracece). 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  61 

A  bright  yellow  liquid,  having  an  aromatic  odor.  Specifit-  gravity 
0.9-47.  It  contains  cineol,  and  other  not  sntficiently  determined  con- 
stituents. 

Oil  of*  Ledum  juilustre,  sei    Oil  of  Marsh  Tea. 
Oil  of  Leinongrass. 

{(icniiitn  :  LemongTass-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  the  East  Indies  from  the  grass  of  a  species  of  Andro- 
pogov,  regarded  as  A.  citnituH  DC.  (Nat.  Ord.  Graminexc). 

This  oil  is  also  known  as  Oil  of  Verbena,  East  Indian,  or  Indian 
Melissa  Oil.  It  has  a  yellowish  or  yellow-ish-brown  color,  or,  when 
rectified,  is  nearly  colorless,  and  possesses  a  fragrant  odor,  reminding 
of  lemon  and  verbena.  Specific  gravity  0.895  to  0.905.  It  contains 
citral.  The  oil  should  form  a  clear  solution  with  twice  its  volume 
of  70  per  cent,  alcohol. 

It  is  valued  for  its  agreeable  perfume. 

Oil  of  Levisticum,  see  Oil  of  Lovage. 
Oil  of  Limes. 

((•'(inutn  :  Linicttc-Oel.) 

Obtained  by  expression  from  tlie  rind  of  the  fresh  fruit  of  Citrus 
Lirnetta  Risso  (Nat.  Ord.  Riitacece). 

A  golden-yellow  li(]uid,  having  an  exceedingly  refreshing  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.882.  Optical  rotation  -}-i\i)  to  -|-40  .  It  contains 
citral  and  linKjnene. 

This  oil  is  very  valuable  in  perfumery,  and  is  not  to  be  confused 
witli  distilled  oils  of  inferior  quality. 

Oil  of  Liiialoe. 

(Grniuni :  Linaloe-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  Mexico  from  a  wood  of  uncertain  botanical  origin. 

A  colorless,  fragrant  liiiuid.  Specific  gravity  0.875  to  0.890.  Optically 
dextrogyrate  or  lajvogyrate.  It  contains  chiefly  linalool  CioHisO  (see 
the  latter,  under  Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III),  and  a  small  amount 
of  its  isomer,  geraniol  {Ber.  d.  deutscli.  chem.  Ges.,  24,  1891,  p.  207). 

The  oil  is  of  value  in  perfumery. 

Oil  of  Lovage. 

{German :  Liobstock-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root,  fruit,  or  lierb  of  Lerisfivinn  otticin(de  Koch 
(Nat.  Ord.  UmbeUifera'). 

The  oils  differ  in  specific  gravity,  that  from  the  root  being  1.03 
to  1.04,  from   the   fruit   0.9:-J5,  and  from  the  fresh  herb  0.928.     They 


02  XON-OFFICIAL   ESSEXTI.M.   OILS. 

liavc   tlie   cluiructeristic   odor  of    the   jjlant,    l)ut   liave    not    yet    been 
c-lieniically  examined. 

Oil  of  Mace. 

{Gcniian :  Macis-(^el.) 

Distilled  from  the  arillode  of  tlie  seed  of  ^f!/risf ic(i  fi-dgmxs  YLont 
tuyn  (Nat.  Ord.  Myrhticucete). 

A  colorless  or  pale  yellovvisli  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  aromatic 
odor.  Specific  gravity  0.91  to  O.lJo.  Optical  rotation  -j-lO ;  It  con- 
tains pineue,  dipentene,  niyristicol  CmHi.,  O,  and  myristicin  C;_.  HnOa 
(see  Bey.  d.  denUch.  cliem.  Ges.,  23,  p.  1803).  Compare  also  0/7  of 
Nufmerj,  Part  I. 

Oil  of  Marjoram,  Sweet. 

(German :  Majoraa-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Origduuni  Mctjorana  Linne  (Xat.  Ord. 
Labiafce). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish  or  greenish-yellow  color,  and  a  strong, 
penetrating  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.890  to  0.900.  Optical  rotation 
+17"  10-. 

The  chemic'al  composition  of  this  oil  has  not  yet  been  determined 
with  sufficient  accuracy.  It  is  used  medicinally,  and  for  i)erfuming 
soaps. 

Oil  of  Marjoram,  Wild. 

(Gennan  :  Dosteti-Oel.) 
Distilled   from   the   herb   of   Origctninii    rulgcii-e   Linne  (Nat.    Ord. 

Labia  fee). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  a  strongly  aromatic  odor,  and  bitter, 
spicy  taste.     Specific  gravity  0.893. 

It  has  not  yet  ])een  sufficiently  examined  chemically. 

Oil  of  Marsh  Tea. 

(<i())niiu  :  Por.-ich-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  tht^  herb  of  Ledum  pahixtre  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Ericacea'). 

The  oil  has  a  pale  reddish-yellow  color,  and  a  penetrating  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.932.  It  boils  l)etween  18U  and  250'  C.  The  chief 
constituent  is  said  to  l)e  ledum  canii)hor  Ci.,  Hj„0,  accompanied  by  a 
sesquite'rpene  C15H2.1.  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  ("o.  did  nt)t  succeed  in 
obtaining  the  above  mentioned  cam2)hor  from  a  normal  oil  of  their 
own  distillation,  nor  from  the  various  fractions  of  it,  even  by  exposure 
to  cold.  (See  BerirJit,  October,  1887,  p.  3.");  also  Ber.  d.  deutsch. 
ehevi.  Ges.,  8,  18:."),  p.  542,  and  16,  1883,  p.  2311.) 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL  OILS.  63 

Oil  of  Massoy  Bark. 

((jrcrman:  Massoyrinden-()el.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark,  occurring  in  New  Guinea,  of  .!/(/. s.so/a 
aromafica  Beccari  (Nat.  Ord.  Lauracece). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  an  agreeable,  spicy  odor,  reuiiuding 
of  clove  and  nutmeg,  and  a  sharp,  Inirniug  taste.  Specific  gravity 
1.058.  It  contains  about  75  per  cent,  of  eugenol,  together  with  safrol, 
pinene,  limonene,  and  dipentene.  (See  Ardiiv  fler  Pharm.,  1890,  ]>.  22, 
and  Liebig's  Annalen,  Bd.  258,  p.  340.) 

It  is  recommended  as  a  perfume  for  soaps,  etc. 

Oil  of  Masterwort. 

(German :  Meisterwiirz-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Imppratoria  OstriithiuDi  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  UiiibeUiferce). 

The  oil  has  a  stronglj-  aromatic  odor,  reminding  of  Angelica,  and 
a  biting,  ai"omatic  taste.     Specific  gravity  0.877.     It  boils  between  170 
and  190°  C,  and  appears  to  consist  chiefly  of   hydrocarbons,  which 
liave  not  been  further  exainined. 

Oil  of  Mastic. 

(German:  Mastix-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Mastic,  a  resinous  exudation  from  Pisfaeid  Leiitiscim 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Aiiacardiacea'). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  and  a  characteristic,  strongly  Ijalsamic 
odor  of  the  drug.     Specific  gravity  0.858.     Optical  rotation  +25  . 

It  appears  to  consist  chiefly  of  terpenes. 

Oil  of  Matico. 

(German  :  Matic'o-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  (and  the  flowers)  of  Piper  an fpi>tii folium 
R.  et  P.  (Nat.  Ord.  Pipcracea). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowisli-brown  c-olor.  and  a  i;eculiar  odor.  The 
specific  gravity  of  the  oil  from  the  leaves  i.s  0.93,  wliile  that  from 
the  flowers  is  1.13.  The  1)est  known  constituent  of  tiie  oil  is  the 
so-called  matico  camphor  C 12  Ho oO.  (See  .B('r.  d.  deutsdi.  chcm.  Ges.,  16, 
1883,  p.  2841.) 

Oil  of  Melissa. 

{German:  Melissen-Oel.) 

The  ti'ue  Oil  of  Melissa,  from  Melisaa  officinalis  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Labiata;),  commonly  known  as  Balm,  is  not  an  article  of  commerce. 
The  article  known  vmder  this  name,  or  as  Oleitni  Melissa'  eitratinn, 
is  obtained  bv  distilling  the  leaves  of  the  melissa  with  lemon  oil. 


04  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Melissa,  East  Indian,  se(    (Ml  of  Lrnionijrass. 
(Ml  of  31('w. 

{German:  ]{aiTWurz-Oel.)  j 

Distilled  from  tlie  root  of  Meiun  (itlimiKuiiiciim  Jac(i.  (Nat.  Ord. 
UrahelUfertii). 

The  oil  has  a  dark  yellow  color,  and  an  odor  reminding  of  lovage. 
Specific  gravity  0.999  at  21°  C.  It  boils  between  170"  and  300'  C, 
yielding  finally  a  greenish-blue  fraction.  It  easily  becomes  resinified 
on  boiling,  but  appears  not  to  have  been  chemically  examined. 

Oil  of  3Iii;rnonette,  see  Oil  of  Keseda. 
Oil  of  Milfoil. 

(Gerruaa :  Schafgarben-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  flowering  herb  of  Achillea  MUlefolium 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Compositce),  known  also  as  Yarrow. 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish,  green,  or  bluish  color,  a  penetrating  odor, 
and  an  aromatic,  camphor-like  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.910  to  0.920. 
It  appears  not  to  have  been  chemically  examined.  It  is  used  to  a 
small  extent  medicinally. 

Oil  of  3Iint,  Mountain,  see  Oil  of  Mountain  Mint. 

Oil  of  Mint,  Water,  s(e  Oil  of  AVater  3Iint. 

(Ml  of  Mint,  Wild,  see  Oil  of  Wild  Mint. 

Oil  of  Monarda,  see  Oil  of  Horseniint. 

Oil  (»f  3Iosoi  Flowers,  see  Oil  of  Cananga. 

Oil  of  Mountain  Mint. 

(Gcnitan :  Pycnanthemum-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  dried  herb  of  Pycnaiifheinnni  incanum  Michaux 
(Nat.  Ord.  LahiaUe). 

The  oil  has  a  reddisii  yellow  color,  and  a  strongly  aromatic*  odor. 
Specific  gravity  O.Oo.").  It  is  soluble  in  twice  its  volume  of  70  per 
cent,  alcohol,  but  has  not  yet  been  chemically  examined. 

Oil  of  Mugwort,  see  Oil  of  Artemisia  vuliraris. 

Oil  of  Musk  Root,  see  Oil  of  Sunibul. 

Oil  of  Musk  Seed,  see  Oil  of  Anibrette  Seed. 


NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  65 

Oil  of  Myrrh. 

{German:  Myrrhen-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Jlyrrh,  a  giini-resin  obtained  from  Commiphora 
Mijrrha  (Nees)  Engler  (Nat.  Ord.  Burseraceie). 

The  oil  is  a  yellowish,  rather  viscid  liquid,  having  a  strong  odor 
of  the  drug.  Specific  gravity  0.990  to  1.010.  Optical  rotation  —60"  2. 
It  distills  chiefl}^  between  270°  and  290'  C,  but  its  constituents  have 
not  been  more  exactly  identified  (see  Pharmacographia,  2  Edit.,  p.  144). 

Oil  of  Myrtle,  Spanish. 

(German:  Myrten-Oel.i 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  llijrfus  coviniunU  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Myrtacece). 

The  oil  has  a  light  yellow  color,  and  an  agreeably  aromatic  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.89  to  0.92.  Optically  dextrogyrate.  It  contains 
cineol,  dextrogyrate  pinene,  and  dipentene  (see  Archiv  der  Pharm., 
Bd.  227,  p.  174).  It  has  been  used  medicinally  as  an  antiseptic,  in 
diseases  of  the  respiratory  organs  and  the  bladder,  and  as  a  local  appli- 
cation in  rheumatic  affections.  See  also  Myriol,  under  Chemical 
Preparations,  Part  III. 

Oil    of    Xiobe,    see     3Iethyl     Benzoate,     under    Chemical 
Preparations,   Part  III. 

Oil  of  Olibaiiiiiu. 

(Gcniian:  Olibauum-Oel  or  AVeihrauch-Oel.> 

Distilled  from  Olibanum,  a  gum-resiu  obtained  from  species  of 
Boswellia  (Nat.  Ord.  Burseraceu'). 

A  colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  balsamic  odor.  Specific 
gravity  0.87.'>  to  0.885.  Optical  rotation  — 11 '  35'.  It  consists  chiefly  of 
laevogyrate  pinene,  with  some  phellaudrene,  dipentene,  and  oxy- 
genated bodies  (see  Liebig's  Annulen,  252,  1889,  p.  94).  The  oil  is 
considered  of  value  in  mixtures  of  soap  perfumes,  and  as  a  con- 
stituent of  fumigating  tinctures. 

Oil  of  Onion. 

(German:  Zwiebel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  herb  and  bulb  of  the  common  onion 
Allium  Cepa  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Liliacea). 

The  oil  has  a  reddish-brown  color.  Specific  gravity  1.040.  Optical 
rotation  — 5\  It  contains  the  compound  CsHiaSa,  and  appears  to 
resemble  in  its  general  characters  and  composition  the  Oil  of  Garlic, 
see  the  latter. 


«'j  XOX-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Opoponax. 

(German :  Opoponax-Ocl.) 

Distilled  from  Opoponax,  a  gum-resin  obtained  from  Opopona.v 
Chironium  Koch  (Nat.  Oi'd.  Umbelliferce). 

The  oil  has  a  greenish-yellow  color,  and  an  agreeable,  balsamic 
odor.  It  resinifies  (jiiickly  on  exposure  to  the  air.  Specific  gravity 
0.860  to  0.910.  It  boils  between  200  and  300'  C,  the  lower  boiling 
portions  representing  tlie  characteristic  odor  of  the  oil,  but  has  not 
yet  been  chemically  examined.  It  appears  to  be  of  value  in  jier- 
fumery. 

Oil  of  Origaiiiim,  Cretian  {Oleum  Origani  Cretici). 

(German:  Spanisch  Hopfen-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  several  species  or  Tarieties  of  Origanum 
gi'own  in  the  Orient,  such  as  O.  creticum  Linne,  O.  megastachyum ,  Lk., 
O.  macrostacJtyiun  Lk.,  and  O.  Jnrtuni  Lk.  (Nat.  Ord.  Labi(ttte). 

The  oil  when  freshly  rectified  has  a  golden- yellow  color,  but  on 
keeping,  or  on  exposure  to  the  air,  gi-adualh'  accjuires  a  reddisli  or 
reddish-brown  color.  It  has  a  penetrating,  aromatic,  thyme-like  odor. 
Specific  gi'avity  0.960  to  0.980.  Its  chief  constituent  is  carvacrol,  of 
which  it  sometimes  contains  as  much  as  80  per  cent.,  and  a  good  oil 
.should  not  contain  less  than  50  per  cent,  of  this  body.  (See  Carvacrol, 
under  Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III.)  The  above  oil,  when  pure, 
is  not  colorless,  and,  in  order  to  retain  it  of  a  light  yellow  color  for 
microscopical  purposes,  it  should  be  kept  in  a  dark  place,  and  in  well- 
stoppered  bottles,  which  should  be  as  completely  filled  as  possible. 

Oil  of  Origaniim,  French,  see  Oil  of  Marjoram,  Wild. 
Oil  of  Orris. 

(German:  Iris-Oel  or  Veilchenwui'zel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizomes  of  the  following  species  of  Iris: 
/.  germaxica  Linne,  I.  palUda  Lam.,  and  I.  florentina  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Tridacece). 

Tills  oil  is  solid  at  ordinary  temperatures.  It  consists  of  myristic 
acid  CuHj-Oj,  associated  with  a  relatively  small  amount  of  liquid 
substance  to  which  its  ex(|uisite  and  persistent  fragrance  is  due. 

The  constituent  of  orris  root,  or  of  the  essential  oil  of  orris,  which 
possesses  the  characteristic,  violet-like  odor  has  recently  been  isolated 
by  Tiemanu  and  Kriiger  (see  Ber.  d.  deiitsch.  chem.  Ges.,  26,  1893, 
pp.  2675-2708).  This  body,  which  has  been  termed  irone,  is  a  ketone 
of  the  composition  CaHooO.     It  distills  at  144'  C,  under  a  pressure 


NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS.  G7 

of  14  Mm.,  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.939  at  20'  C,  aud  is  dextro 
rotatory.  By  the  elimination  of  the  elements  of  water  it  is  converted 
into  a  hydrocarbon  termed  irene  CiaHis. 

Tlie  oil  of  orris  distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  has  been 
found  to  contain  from  10  to  15  per  cent,  of  iroue. 

A  body  liaving  the  same  empirical  composition  as  irone,  and 
structurally  isomeric  with  it,  has  also  been  obtained  by  the  above  men- 
tioned chemists  by  syntlietic  means,  and  is  termed  ionone.  This  is 
prepared  by  the  condensation  of  citral  and  acetone,  whereby  tlie 
so-called  pseudo-ionone  is  first  ol)tained,  and  the  latter,  by  treatment 
with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  suffers  a  molecular  change,  becoming 
converted  into  the  isomeric  ionone. 

Ionone,  Cm  HooO,  distills  between  126°  and  128°  C.  under  a  pressure 
of  12  Mm.,  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.9351  at  20  C,  and  is  optically 
inactive.  By  the  elimination  of  the  elements  of  water  it  is  converted 
into  a  hydrocarbon  termed  ionene,  Ci3Hie. 

Ionone  possesses  in  a  remarkable  degree  of  purity  and  concentration 
the  characteristic,  fragrant  odor  of  fresh  violets.  This  odor  is  t)nly 
fully  developed  when  the  substance  is  in  a  diluted  state,  and  ionone 
is  therefore  brought  into  commerce  in  the  form  of  a  ten  per  cent, 
alcoholic  solution.  It  is  thus  adapted  for  use  in  floral  extracts,  toilet 
soaps,  aud  other  perfumed  articles. 

Oil  of  Palmarosa,  see  Oil  of  Geranium,  East  Indian. 
Oil  of  Para  Coto  Bark,  sec  Oil  of  Coto  Bark,  Para. 
Oil  of  Parsley. 

{Gci-maii :  Petersilien-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  PetroscUn nm  sativum  Hoffm.  (Nat.  Ord. 
Umbelliferce). 

A  colorless  or  pale  greenish-yellow  liquid,  liaving  a  strong  odor 
of  parslej'.  Specific  gravity  1.07.  It  contains  la^vogyrate  pinene  and 
apiolCi2Hu04  (see  the  latter,  under  Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III). 

The  oil  is  used  occasionally  as  a  diuretic. 

Oil  of  Parsley  Root  has  also  been  distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel 
&  Co.  The  yield  is  very  small,  amounting  to  but  0.08  per  cent,  of 
the  dry  root.  The  oil  has  a  specific  gravity  of  1.049.  At  ordinary 
temperatures  it  separates  crystals,  which  probably  consist  of  apiol. 

Oil  of  Parsnip. 

(German :  Pastinac-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Pastinaca  sativa  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Umbelliferce). 


68  XOX-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Tlie  oil  lias  a  yellowish  color,  and  a  characteristic,  agreeable  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.870  to  0.890.  It  contains  the  octyl  esters  of  pro- 
pionic and  butyric  acids. 

Oil  of  Patchouly. 

(German:  Patchouli-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Pogo.stemon  Patclioidi  Pellet.  (Nat. 
Ord.  Lahiatce). 

A  yellowish -green  or  brown,  somewhat  thick  liquid,  having  a 
penetrating  and  exceedingly  persistent  odor.  Specific  gi-avity  0.97  to 
0.99.  It  contains  cadinene  C15H24,  and  patchouly  alcohol,  or  so-called 
"patchouly  camphor"  Ci5H-„0  (see  Liebig's  Annaleii,  150,  1869,  p. 
374;  238,  1887,  p.  81;  Covij^t.  rend.,  84,  1877,  p.  88). 

An  oil  distilled  in  Java  from  a  species  of  Pogostemon  closely 
related  to  the  above  has  a  yellowish  color  and  an  odor  reminding  of 
patchouly,  but  agreeably  modified  by  the  presence  of  a  sul)Stance 
having  an  odor  resembling  anise-aldehj'de.  The  specific  gravity  of 
this  oil  is  O.Ofil.  Optical  rotation  — 32  17'.  It  is  said,  under  some 
circumstances,  to  deposit  a  stearopten  (see  Schimniel  &  Co.'s  Bericht, 
April,  1894,  p.  58). 

Oil  of  Pear,  see  Amyl  Acetate,  under 

Chemical  Preparations,  Part  III. 
Oil  of  Peimyroyal,  European,  see  under 

Oil  of  Hedeonia,  Part  I. 
Oil  of  Pepper. 

{German:  Pfeffer-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Black  Pepper,  the  fruit  of  Piper  nigrum  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  Piperacece). 

A  yellowish,  limpid  liquid,  having  a  stronglj'  pungent,  pepper-like 
odor  and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.880  to  0.905.  It  contains  phellan- 
drene  Cm  Hip,  and  cadinene  C15H04  (see  Archiv  der  Pharm.,  1887, 
p.  515,  and  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericlit,  October,  1890,  p.  39). 

Long  Pepper,  the  fruit  of  Piper  longuni  Linne,  yields  a  thickish 
oil,  of  a  light  gi'een  color,  and  an  odor  reminding  moi'e  of  ginger. 
Specific  gravity  0.861.     It  boils  between  250'  and  300'  C. 

Oil  of  Pepper,  Japanese. 

{German:  Pi'effer-Oel,  .lapanisches.) 

Distilled  from  the  iruit  of  Xanthoxyhnu  piperitvm  DC.  (.Japanese: 
"Sansho"),  Nat.  Ord.  Rntacea\ 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish  color,  and  an  agreeable  lemon-like  odor 
and  taste.  Specific  gravity  0.9T3.  It  i)()ils  between  16(1  and  230  C, 
and  contains  a  terpene  and  citral. 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  G9 

Oil  of  Peru  Balsam,  see  Oil  of  Balsam  Peru. 
Oil  of  Petit  Grains. 

(Gcrmau :  Petitgruins-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  and  unripe  fruits  of  Citni-s  Bigavadia 
Duhamel  (Nat.  Ord.  Rntacea'). 

A  yellowish  liquid,  having  an  odor  reminding  of  the  oil  of  orange 
flowers  (neroli),  but  not  nearly  so  fine.  Specific  gravity  0.890-0.900.  It 
contains  the  acetic  ester  of  an  alcohol  which  is  either  isomeric  with 
linalool,  or  most  probably  identical  with  it.  This  is  not  the  only  Ijody 
to  which  the  aroma  of  the  oil  is  due,  but  it  appears  to  be  a  ^-ery 
essential  one.  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  {Berichf,  April,  1894,  j).  39) 
have  found  the  amount  of  ester  in  Paraguay  oils  to  vary  from  50  to 
80  per  cent.,  and  that  the  oils  containing  the  most  ester  are  richest 
in  perfume.  The  oil  is  soluble  in  twice  its  volume  of  80  per  cent, 
alcohol. 

Oil  of  Petit  Grains  is  used  only  as  a  perfume. 

Oil  of  Phelhiutlrium,  see  Oil  of  Water  Fennel. 
Oil  of  Pilocarpus,  see  Oil  of  Jaborandi. 
Oil  of  Pimpinella. 

{Germcui :  Piini>iiR'll-()el.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Pimpinelhi  Saxifrnga  Linue  (Nat.  Ord. 
UmbeUiferce). 

The  oil  has  a  yellow  color,  and  a  penetrating,  parsley-like  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.959.  It  boils  between  240'  and  310  C,  but  appears 
not  to  have  been  further  examined  chemically. 

Oil  of  Pinus  Abies  or  Norway  Spruce  Fir. 

(Germa)i :  Fichtennadel-Oel.) 

Distilled  froni  the  leaves  and  twigs  of  Finns  Abies  Linne  (Pinus 
excelsa  Lk.,  Abies  e.rreJsa  DC,  Picea  vulgaris  Lk.),  Nat.  Ord.  Coniferce. 

The  oil  has  a  characteristic,  and  exceedingly  agreeable  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.888.  Optical  rotation  — 21°  40'.  It  contains  laivo- 
gyrate  pinene,  Isevogyrate  phellandrene,  dipentene,  cadinene  and 
Isevogyrate  bornyl  acetate.  Tlie  amount  of  ester,  calculated  as  boruyl 
acetate,  is  about  8.3  per  cent. 

The  interesting  investigations  on  the  coniferous  oils  here  described, 
conducted  by  Drs.  Bertram  and  Walbaum  in  the  laboratory  of  Schim- 
mel &  Co.,  Leipsic,  are  contained  in  the  Arcliiv  der  Pliarm.,  1893, 
pp.  290-305.  See  also  Schinnnel  &  Co.'s  Bericld,  October,  1892,  p.  21, 
April  1893,  p.  29,  and  October,  1893,  p.  19. 


70  NON- OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS, 

Oil  of  IMiius  Ledebourii  or  Siberian  Larch. 

{Gcrtiuin:  Sibirisclies  Fichtennadel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Pinufi  Ledebourii  Endl.  {Larix  Sihirica 
Ledebour),  Nat.  Ord.  Coniferce. 

Specific  gravity  0.913.  It  boils  at  about  1(59'  C,  but  appears  not 
to  have  been  further  examined. 

Oil  of  riuus  Picea  or  Silver  Fir. 

{(icniKtii :  Edfltiiiiiien-Oel.j 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  or  the  young  cones  of  Piitiis  Picea  Linne 
(Abies  2M!ctlnatu  DC),  Nat.  Ord.  Coniferw. 

The  oil  from  the  leaves  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.87  to  0.88. 
Optical  rotation  — 20'  to  — 50".  It  contains  pinene.  limonene,  cadinene, 
and  bornyl  acetate.  The  amount  of  ester,  calculated  as  bornyl  acetate, 
is  about  4.5  per  cent. 

This  oil  has  a  very  agreeable,  refreshing  odor,  and  is  of  value  in 
perfumery. 

The  oil  from  the  young  cones  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.850  to 
0.865.  Optical  rotation  — 55"  to  — 80'.  It  contains  pinene,  limonene, 
and  about  0.5  per  cent,  of  ester,  calculated  as  bornyl  acetate  (see 
also  Wallach,  in  Liebig's  Annalen,  227,  p.  2S7). 

This  oil  has  a  milder  odor  than  that  from  the  leaves  and  twigs. 
Its  physical  characters  and  chemical  composition  are  also  (^uite 
different. 

Oil  of  Piiius  Pumilio  or  Mountain  Pine 

(German:  Latscheakiefern-Oelor  Krumniholz-Oel.)  (  Oleum   Ternplliiuni) . 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  PUius  Piunilio  Hiinke  (Nat.  Ord. 
Coniferce). 

This  oil  is  also  known  by  the  fanciful  names  of  "  Piimiline  "  and 
"Pinol,"  and  by  the  latter  designation  it  should  not  be  contused  with 
the  definite  chemical  body  CioHioO,  which  is  an  isomer  of  camphor, 
and  to  which  the  name  j)inol  has  also  been  applied  (see  Liebig"s 
Annalen,  253,  1889,  p.  249,  and  259,  1890,  p.  309). 

The  above  oil  is  colorless  or  greenish-yellow,  has  a  peculiar, 
agreeably  aromatic  odor,  and  an  aroiiiatic,  bitterish  taste.  Specific 
gravity  0.865  to  0.870.  Optical  rotation  — 5"  to  — 10".  It  contains 
pinene,  phellaudrene,  sjdvestrene,  cadinene,  and  bornyl  acetate.  The 
amount  of  ester,  calculated  as  bornyl  acetate,  is  about  5  to  9  per  cent. 

An  oil  distilled  by  IMessrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  from  the  fresh  twigs 
of  Pinus  Pumilio  differed  somewhat  in  its  characters  from  the  com- 
mercial oil,  which  is  distilled  chiefly  in  the  Tyrolese  Alps.  Its  specific 
gravity  was  0.892.     Optical  rotation — 8'.     Amount  of  ester,  calculated 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  71 

as  bornyl  acetate,  8.7  per  cent.,  while  the  commercial  oils  contain  on 
an  average  about  5  })er  cent,  of  ester  (see  Berichi,  October,  189"), 
p.  19). 

The  oil  has  been  used  in  nianj^  forms,  both  internally,  externally, 
and  for  inhalations,  especially  in  the  treatment  of  influenza. 

Oil  of  Piiius  Silvestris  or  Stotch  Pine. 

(German :  Kiefernnadel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Pinus  silvefitris  Linue  (Nat.  Ord. 
ConifercH). 

The  specific  gravity  of  the  oil  from  German  leaves  is  0.88(3,  from 
Swedish  leaves  0.872.  Optical  rotation  +10^  to  +10'  40'.  It  contains 
pinene,  sylvestrene,  cadinene,  and  bornyl  acetate,  the  latter  in  amoimts 
of  about  3.0  per  cent. 

This  oil  possesses  a  very  agreeable,  and  strong,  pine-like  odor.  It 
is  used  medicinally,  in  the  form  of  inhalations  in  lung  diseases,  and 
as  an  addition  to  baths  in  rheumatic  affections. 

Oil  of  Poplar  Buds. 

(Gcrtiian :  Pappt'lknospoii-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  dried  buds  of  Populus  nigra  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Salicacei^). 

The  oil  has  a  bright  yellow  color,  and  a  fine  odor,  reminding 
somewhat  of  chamomile.  Specific  gravity  0.900.  Optical  rotation 
-|-2'.  Boiling  point  355'  to  265  C.  Its  chemical  composition  corre- 
sponds to  the  formula  (C5H,)x,  and  its  boiling  point  therefore  indi- 
cates it  to  be  a  sesquiterpene  C15  H24  (see  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  dievi.  Ges.,  6, 
1878,  p.  890,  and  7,  1874,  p.  1485). 

Oil  of  Reseda. 

(German:  Keseda-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  flowers  of  Reseda  odorata  Linne  or  "Mign- 
onette" (Nat.  Ord.  Resedacete). 

This  oil  is  solid  at  ordinary  temperatures,  and  of  a  wax-like  con- 
sistence. It  appears  not  to  have  been  chemically  examined,  but  is 
doubtless  of  value  in  perfumery. 

Oil  of  Reseda  Root  has  no  similarity  with  the  oil  from  the  flowers, 
but  possesses  a  radish-like  odor,  and  contains  sulphur.  It  appears  to 
belong  to  the  group  of  so-called  mustard  oils,  although  not  identical 
with  ordinary  mustard  oil.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.085  and  oj^tical 
rotation  -j-l""  30  (see  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericht,  April,  1894,  p.  55). 

Oil  of  Rhodium,  see  Oil  of  Rose  Wood. 

Oil  of  Rose  Geranium,  see  Oil  of  Geranium. 


T-2  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL  OILS. 

Oil  of  Rose  Wood. 

(German  :  Rosoiiholz-Oel.) 

The  article  occuri-iug  iu  commerce  under  this  name,  or  as  "Oil 
of  Rhodium, "  is  a  mixture  of  sevei'al  essential  oils  with  rose  oil.  The 
true  Oil  of  Rose  Wood,  which  is  now  not  obtainable,  but  a  very  small 
specimen  of  which  has  been  distilled  by  Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.,  of 
Leipsic,  is  derived  from  the  wood  of  Coni'oh'uhis  ticoparius  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  Convoh-uhiceie). 

It  has  a  handsome  golden-j-ellow  color,  an  exceedingly  agreeable 
rose-like  odor,  and,  like  rose  oil,  solidifies  at  about  12  C.  in  needle- 
shaped  crystals.  The  earlier  investigations  assign  to  this  oil  a  specific 
gravity  of  0.906,  a  la>vog\-rate  rotation,  and  a  boiling  point  of  249  C. 
It  ajjpears  to  consist  chiefly  of  a  sesquiterpene  (Schimmel  &  Co. 's 
Bcricht,  April,  1887,  p.  28). 

Oil  of  Rose  Wood  has  been  used  in  perfumer^-,  and  as  a  bait  for 
wild  rabbits  and  rats.  For  the  latter  purpose  it  is  said  that  an  equally 
effectual  preparation  is  a  mixture  of  1  part  of  rose  oil  with  20  parts 
of  copaiba  oil. 

The  wood  of  Liualoe,  from  French  Guiana,  is  sometimes  brought 
into  commerce  under  the  name  of  Bois  de  Rose  feineUe. 

Oil  of  Rue. 

iGcniia)}  :  Kauten-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Ruta  grairolois  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Rictaccce). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish  or  greenish -yellow  color,  and  a  character- 
istic, not  specially  agreeable  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.834  to  0.840. 
Optical  rotation  about  -f-1'  to  -|-2".  At  0'  C.  it  solidifies  to  a  crystalline 
mass.  It  begins  to  boil  at  about  215"  C,  and  distills  completelj^  at 
about  235'  C.  It  contains  about  90  per  cent,  of  methyl -uonyl  ketone 
CH3-CO-C;,  Hi9.  The  latter  is  a  colorless  litjuid,  having  an  agreeable 
odor,  a  specific  gravitj'  of  0.831,  boiling  point  226  to  227'  C,  and 
which  solidifies  at  10'  C.  to  a  crystalline  mass. 

The  oil  is  used  medicinally,  both  internally  and  externally.  It  is 
frequently  adulterated  with  oil  of  turpentine,  petroleum,  alcohol,  etc. 

Oil  of  Sage. 

(Geiinan  :  Salboi-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Sfdi'ia  ojlficiiialis  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Lab  lata'). 

A  yellowish  or  greenish-yellow  liquid,  having  the  penetrating, 
characteristic  odor  of  sage.  Specific  gravity  0.915  to  0.925.  Optically 
dextrogyrate.    The  oil  contains  small  amounts  of  pinene  and  ciueol,  but 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  73 

its   chief    coustitueut    is    thujoue  C,,)  H,,.  O   (formerly  termed    .saivial), 
which   also    occurs   in    the    oils    of    thuja,  tansy,  and  wormwood  (see 
Liebig's  Annaleii,  237,  1885,  p.  289,  and  252,  1889,  p.  94). 
The  oil  is  used  to  a  small  extent  medicinally. 

Oil  of  Satiireja. 

(Giriiiaii :  iSatureja-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  southern  Spain  from  the  herl)  of  Satnreja  Tliymbva 
(Nat.  Ord.  Labiatce). 

The  oil  has  an  exceedingly  strong  and  penetrating,  thymol-like 
odor.  Specific  gravity  0. 906.  It  consists  for  the  most  part  of  cymol, 
with  about  19  per  cent,  of  thymol,  and  some  pinene,  dipentene,  and 
bornyl  acetate.  It  has  the  properties  of  a  powerful  stimulant  and 
antiseptic.     See  also  Oil  of  Summer  Savory. 

Oil  of  Scurvy  Orass,  see  Oil  of  Cochlearia,  Synthetic. 
Oil  of  Serpentaria. 

(G(r)naii :  Schluugenwurzel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  and  roots  of  Aristolochia  Serpentaria 
Linne  and  A.  reticulata  Nuttall,  "Virginia  Snakeroot "  (Nat.  Ord. 
Aristolochiacea^). 

The  oil  has  an  amber  or  light  brown  color,  and  an  odor  re- 
sembling that  of  camphor  and  valerian.  Specific  gravity  0.975  to 
0.988.  Optical  rotation  — 4".  It  is  stated  by  J.  C.  Peacock  {Ainer. 
Journ.  Pharm.,  1891,  p.  257)  to  contain  a  terpene  (probably  pinene), 
an  ester  of  borneol,  a  body  of  tlie  composition  CimHsuO,  and  a  green 
or  bluish-green  fraction. 

Oil  of  Snakeroot,  Canada,  see  Oil  of  Asaruni  Canudense. 
Oil  of  Snakeroot,  Virginia,  see  Oil  of  Serpentaria. 
Oil  of  Spice  Bush. 

(German:  Spicebush-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark,  berries,  leaves,  and  twigs  of  Lindera 
Benzoin  Blume  (Nat.  Ord.  Lauracece).  The  plant  is  known  also  as 
Fever-hush,  Benjamia-hush,  or  Wild  Allspice. 

The  oil  frouT  the  hark  has  an  odor  reminding  of  wiutergreeii,  a 
specific  gravity  of  0.923,  and  lioils  between  170    and  300    C. 

The  oil  from  the  herries  has  an  aromatic,  sjncy,  and  camphoi'-like 
odor,  a  specific  gravity  of  0.855,  and  boils  between  160'  and  270    C. 

The  oil  from  the  leaves  has  a  very  agreeable,  lavender-like  odor, 
and  a  specific  gravity  of  0.888. 


U  NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Tlie  oil  from  the  ficiys  ]ias  an  odor  reiiiinding  of  caniplior  and 
calamus,  and  a  specific  gravity  of  0.928. 

None  of  these  oils  appear  as  yet  to  have  been  cliemicany  examined. 

Oil  of  Spike,  see  Oil  of  Lavender,  Spike,  under 

{German :  Spik-Oei.)  Oil  of  Laveiider  Flowers,  Part  I. 

Oil  of  Spruce. 

((Jeriiuin  :  Spruee-Ool.) 

This  oil  is  distilled  fnnn  the  leaves  and  twigs  of  either  Picea  itlba 
Link.  {White  Spruce)  or  Picea  nigra.  Link.  (Black  Spruce),  Nat.  Ord. 
Conifercp. 

It  is  a  colorless  liquid,  having  a  characteristic  and  agreeal)le  odor. 
Comjnercial  oils  from  authentic  sources  we  have  found  to  have  a 
specific  gravity  ranging  from  0.905  to  0.912,  and  an  optical  rotation 
of  —22^  20'  to  —25'  50'. 

This  Oil  of  Sj)ruce  is  apparently  the  pnxluct  which  was  examined 
in  the  laboratory  of  Messi"s.  Schinimel  &  Co.,  Leipsic,  and  designated 
as  "Hemlocktannen-Oel,"  with  reference  to  its  supposed  botanical 
source  from  Abies  canadensis  Michx.,  which  is  jjopularly  known  in 
America  as  "Hemlock  Spruce.  '  The  latter,  however,  is  lielieved  to 
be  the  source  of  the  commercial  Oil  of  Hemlock,  which  is  probably 
similar  in  composition  to  the  true  Oil  of  Spruce. 

The  above  described  Oil  of  Spruce  must  therefore  be  considered 
to  contain  lajvogyrate  pinene,  cadineue  CiiHo4,  and  l)ornyl  acetate, 
the  latter  in  amounts  of  about  3.6  per  cent,  (see  Schinimel  &  Co.'s 
Bericld,  April,  1893,  p.  30).     Compare  also  Oil  of  Hemlock. 

Oil  of  Star  Anise,  see  Oil  of  Anise,  Star. 
Oil  of  Storax. 

(Oc'idffH  ;  Stora.\-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  Storax,  a  balsam  prepared  from  the  inner  bark  of 
Liquidambar  orienfalis  Miller  (Nat.  Ord.  Hamamelacefv). 

This  oil  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.890  to  0.900,  and  an  optical 
rotation  of  — 15'.  It  contains  styrol  C,  H5-CH=CH.j,  and  several 
esters  of  cinnamic  acid.  It  boils  between  150"  and  300  C,  with  de 
composition,  and  the  separation  of  cinnamic  acid. 

It  is  of  value  in  perfumery,  and  for  this  purpose  is  capabie  of 
completely  displacing  storax  balsam.  Through  improved  methods  of 
distillation,  the  oil  now  prepared  by  Messrs.  S^^'himmel  &  Co.  is  partic- 
ularly rich  in  its  most  valuable  odorous  constituents,  A\-hich  are  the 
less  volatile  esters  (see  Berichf,  April,  1894,  p.  52). 


! 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  75 

Oil  of  Sunibul. 

(GcvDtan:  M(iSfliuswurzcl-(_)c;  ) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Fei-ida  Saiithul  Hooker  filius,  or  so-called 
Musk  Root  (Nat.  Ord.  Uiiibellifera). 

Tliis  oil  has  a  strong  odor,  resembling  that  of  musk,  for  which  it 
is  sometimes  used  as  a  substitute.     Its  specific  gravity  is  0.954. 

Nothing  appears  to  be  known  of  its  chemical  constituents. 

Oil  of  Summer  Savory. 

{(Icrumn:  Bohnenkraut-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  herb  of  Satureja  liortensis  Linue  (Nat. 
Ord.   Lahiatce). 

A  yellow,  limpid  liquid,  having  an  aromatic,  thyme-like  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.898  to  0.913.  It  contains  carvacrol  C10H14O  (about 
80  per  cent.),  traces  of  another  phenol,  cymol  doHn,  and  a  terpene 
liaving  a  boiling  point  of  178"  to  180'  C.  (see  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  cheiii. 
Ges.,  15,  1882,  p.  816).     Compare  also  Oil  of  Satureja. 

Oil  of  Sweet  Fern. 

(German :  Comptoni;i-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Myrica  afipleaifoJia  Endl.,  or  Comp- 
tonia  af^plenifolia  Alton  (Nat.  Ord.  Mijricacecv). 

This  oil  has  a  strongh'  spicy,  cinnamon-like  odor.  Specific  gravity 
0.926.  In  a  freezing  mixture  it  becomes  solid.  It  has  not  yet  been 
further  examined. 

Oil  of  Tansy. 

(German :  Rainfarrn-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  herb  of  Tanacetum  vidgare  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Composit(v). 

A  yellowish  liquid,  becoming  brown  on  exposure  to  light  and  air, 
and  having  a  strong  odor.  The  specific  gravity  of  the  oil  from  fresh 
herb  is  0.915  to  0.930,  and  that  from  dried  herb  0.954.  It  contains  a 
ketone  termed  tanacetone  CioHieO,  which  is  identical  with  thujone 
from  thuja  oil,  and  which  also  occurs  in  the  oils  of  sage  and  worm- 
wood. The  oil  also  appears  to  contain  tanacetyl  alcohol  CioHibO, 
and  a  small  amount  of  a  terpene  (see  Ber.  d.  deutseh.  ciem.  Ges.,  11, 
p.  450,  25,  pp.  3343,  3352,  3513;  also  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericht,  April, 
1893,  p.  50).  We  have  observed  that  the  oil  forms  a  perfectly  clear 
solution  with  three  times  its  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol,  which 
may  serve  as  an  excellent  practical  test  for  its  jmrity.  It  has  de- 
cidedly poisonous  properties. 


7'i  NON-OFP^ICIAT.    ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Thuja. 

{(JfriiKin :  Thuja-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Thuja  occidentalis  Limie,  the  so-called 
Arbor  Vit.e  or  White  Cedar  (Nat.  Ord.  Coniferce). 

A  pale  yellow  licjuid,  having  a  characteristic,  rather  agreeable 
odor.  The  commercial  oil  from  authentic  sources  has  been  found  to 
have  a  specific  gravity  varying  from  0.915  to  0.9'2.j,  and  an  oirtical 
rotation  of  — 8  to  — 14  C.  An  oil  distilled  in  ovir  Garfield  factor}-  has 
a  specific  gravity  of  0.932,  ajid  an  optical  rotation  of  — 6  10'.  The 
oil  contains  thujone  CioHi,;0,  which  is  also  found  in  the  oils  of  tansy, 
sage,  and  wormwood,  together  with  l^vogyrate  fenchone  CioHieO, 
pinene,  and  apparently  some  inactive  carvol  (see  Liebig's  Amialeit, 
Bd.  272,  p.  99,  Bd.  277,  p.  159;  also  Schimrael  &  Oo.'s  Bericht,  April, 
1893,  p.  57,  April,  1894,  p.  52j. 

The  oil  of  thuja  forms  a  perfectly  clear  solution  with  8  times  its 
volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol  at  about  20  C.  This  test  is  of  practical 
importance,  as  serving  to  distinguish  this  oil  from  the  Oil  of  Red 
Cedar  leaves  (from  Juniperus  Virginiana  Linne),  which  is  not  soluble 
in  70  per  cent,  alcohol.     Compare  Oil  of  Cedar  Leaves,  American. 

Oil  of  Thuja  Root.  i; 

(German  :  Thuj;nvnr/.el-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Tliuja  oriental  is  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Conifera'). 

This  oil  has  an  intense  brown  color,  ami  an  odor  reminding  of 
thymoquinone.  Its  si)ecific  gravity  is  0.979.  It  has  not  been  further 
examined. 

Oil  of  Thyme,  Wild,  see  under  Oil  of  Th.vme,  Part  I. 
Oil  of  Tolu  Balsam,  see  Oil  of  Balsam  Tolu. 
Oil  of  Valerian. 

iGcDiiiiii :  lialdriiUi-Ool.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  and  roots  of  Valeriana  officinalis  Linne 
(Nat.  Ord.  Valerianacea'). 

This  oil  was  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopceia  of  1880,  but 
is  now  discarded  from  the  oftitdal  list.  It  has  a  yellowish  or  brownish 
color,  and  a  characteristic,  penetrating  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.940 
to  0.950.  It  contains  pinene,  camphene,  borneol,  and  the  formic, 
acetic,  and  i.so-valerianic  esters  of  borneol  (see  Ber.  d.  cleutsch.  cliem. 
Ges.,  11,  1878,  p.  452,  and  Compt.  rend.,  117,  p.  1096). 

It  is  used  medicinallj^  in  various  nervous  affections. 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  77 

Oil  of  Yaleriaii,  Japanese. 

[Kesso  Oil.] 

{German:  Haldrian-Oel,  Japunisclies.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  aud  roots  of  Valeriarm  officiudlis 
Liune,  var.  cmguHtifolia  Miq.  (Nat.  Ord.  Valerianacece). 

This  oil  has  a  green  color,  a  somewhat  thickish  consistence,  and 
can  scarcely  be  distinguished  in  odor  from  the  ordinary  oil  of  valerian. 
Specific  gravity  0.996.  It  contains  Itevogyrate  pinene,  camphene,  di- 
pentene,  terpineol,  borneol,  the  acetic  and  iso-valerianic  esters  of 
borneol,  kessyl  acetate  C^  H23  O-Co  Hs  O-,,  probably  also  a  sesquiterpene 
CioH^j,  and  in  the  high  boiling  portions  a  blue  oil  (see  Archiv  der 
Phann.,  228,  p.  4.S3.  and  Journ.  fiir  praM.  Chemie,  N.  F.,  49,  1894, 
p.  18. 

The  uses  of  this  oil  are  the  same  as  those  of  the  ordinary  oil  of 
valerian. 

Oil  of  Yaleriaua  Celtica. 

[German  :  Speik-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Valei'iana  vcltica  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
V(ilerianacea'). 

Tliis  oil  has  a  strongly  aromatic  odor,  reminding  more  of  Roman 
chamomile  and  patchouly  than  of  valerian  oil.  Specific  gravit.v  0.967. 
It  boils  between  250'  and  300"  C,  but  appears  not  to  have  been 
further  examined. 

It  has  been  used  as  a  perfume  in  soaps,  etc. 

Oil  of  Yerbeiia,  East  Indian,  see   Oil  of  Lemongrass. 
Oil  of  Terbena,  Java,  see  Oil  of  Citronella  Fruit. 
Oil  of  Tetiver. 

[Cuscus  Ciil.] 

((_lcvuM)t  :  Vetiver-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  root  of  Andropogon  muricatus  Eetz  (Nat.  Ord. 
Graniinea'). 

The  oil  is  thickish,  and  has  a  strong  and  very  agreeable  odor, 
reminding  somewliat  of  violet.  Specific  gravity  1.01  to  1.02.  It  is 
soluble  in  twice  its  volume  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol.  Nothing  appears 
to  be  known  of  its  chemical  composition.    It  is  used  in  perfumery. 

Messrs.  Schimmel  &  Co.  {Beridit,  April,  1893,  p.  59,  and  April, 
1894,  p.  53)  have  found  that  the  oil  distilled  in  the  island  of  Reunion 
cannot  serve  as  a  substitute  for  the  oil  distilled  from  the  Indian  root, 
and  with  modern  appliances.  The  Beunioa  vetiver  oil  has  a  much 
milder  odor,  a  specific  gravity  of  0.968,  and  is  insoluble  in  80  per 
cent,  alcohol,  these  characters  indicating  its  adulteration. 


78  XOX-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Viruiniji  Snake  Root,  sec  Oil  of  Serpeiitaria. 
Oil  of  Walnut  Leaves. 

(Gcrnmn  :  KussblUtter-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  fresh  leaves  of  Juglans  regid  Linne  (Nat.  Orel. 
JucjUmdacetfi). 

This  oil  has  an  agreeable,  tea-like  odor,  and  is  solid  at  ordinary 
temperatures.     It  has  not  yet  been  further  examined. 

Oil  of  IVater  Fennel. 

(Gcrnuin  :  Wassorli'iichel-Oel.) 

Distilled  fi*om  the  fruit  of  Phellandrinm  aqiiaticnm  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Umbelliferce). 

The  oil  is  yellow,  limpid,  and  has  the  peculiar  odor  of  water- 
fennel.  Specific  gravity  0.860  to  0.890.  It  contains  pinene,  pliellan- 
drene,  and  dipentene  (see  Gazetta  Chivi.  ItaL,  XVI,  p.  225). 

Oil  of  Water  Mint. 

(Germa)i :  AVasscimiuz-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  southern  Spain  from  the  fresh  herb  of  Mentha  (iqutttica 
Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Labiatce). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish-green  color,  and  an  odor  reminding  of 
pennyroj'al.     Specific  gravity  0.880.     Optical  rotation  — 2    14'. 

Oil  of  White  Ash  Bark. 

{German:  Eschenrinden-Ool,  Amerikanisches.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Fra,rinns  Aviericdud  Linne  (Nat.  Ord. 
Oleacecv). 

This  oil  has  a  characteristic,  fruit-like  odor,  and  a  l)utter-like 
consistence  at  ordinary  temperatures.  It  has  not  yet  been  further 
examined. 

Oil  of  White  Cedar,  see  Oil  of  Thuja. 

Oil  of  Wild  Carrot,  see  Oil  of  Carrot,  Wild. 

Oil  of  Wild  Cherry  Bark. 

(German :  Wildkirschenrinde-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  l)ark  of  Pninus   serotina  Ehrhart   (Nat.    Ord. " 
Rosacea'). 

This  oil  resembles  that  of  bitter  almonds.  Specific  gravity  1.050. 
It  consists  for  the  most  part  of  benzaldehyde,  and  is  rich  in  hydro- 
cyanic acid. 

Oil  of  Wild  (iini^er,  see  Oil  of  Asarum  Canadense. 


NON-OFFICIAL   ESSENTIAL   OILS.  79 

Oil  of  ^\m  3iiiit. 

Distilled  from  the  dried  herb  of  Mentha  Canadeni^is  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  Lahiafcf). 

The  oil  has  a  reddish -j^ellow  color,  and  an  odor  reminding  of 
pennyroyal.  Specific  gravity' 0.948  at  15'  C.  It  forms  acinar  solution 
with  twice  its  volume  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol.  Its  chemical  compo- 
sition has  not  yet  l)een  determined. 

Oil  of  AViia  Thyme,  see  under  Oil  of  Thyme,  Part  I. 
Oil  of  Winter's  Bark. 

(German  :  Wiiitcrsriiidt'ii-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  bark  of  Drirnys  Winteri  Forst.  (Nat.  Ord. 
3IagiioIlace(v). 

Specific  gravity  0.945.  Its  chief  constituent  appears  to  be  a  hydro- 
carbon boiling  between  260  and  265  C,  and  therefore  probably  a 
sesquiterpene,  but  it  has  not  yet  been  suflficiently  examined. 

Oil  of  Wormseed,  Levant. 

(Gcnmin  :  Zittworsainen-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  unexpanded  flower  heads  of  Artemisia  pauci- 
flora  Weber  (Nat.  Ord.  Conipositce). 

The  oil  has  a  yellowish  color,  and  a  penetrating,  disagreeable  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.930.  It  consists  chiefly  of  cineol  CuHi^O,  with 
some  dipentene  (see  Liebig's  Anualen,  225,  1884,  p.  291). 

It  is  used  to  a  small  extent  medicinally.  When  taken  in  any  con- 
siderable amount  it  possesses  marked  toxic  ijroperties. 

Oil  of  Wormwood. 

(German  :  Wermuth-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Artemisia  Absiiithiam  Linne  (Nat. 
Ord.  C'oiiqjosita'). 

The  oil  from  the  fresh  herb  has  a  dark  green  color,  while  that 
from  the  dry  hei'b  is  yellowish -green  or  yellowish-brown,  always 
becoming  dark  brown,  however,  by  age.  It  has  a  strong  and  some- 
what unpleasant  odor,  resembling  that  of  the  plant.  Specific  gravity 
0.925  to  0.950.  Its  chief  constituent  is  thujone  (absynthol)  CioHieO, 
which  is  associated  with  a  small  amount  of  terpenes,  and  a  deep  blue 
oil  in  the  higher  boiling  portions  (see  Liebig's  Aiinaloi,  170,  1873,  p.  290, 
and  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  diem.  Ges.,  25,  p.  3350). 

The  oil  is  used  to  a  small  extent  medicinally,  but  also  po.ssesses 
strongly  toxic  properties. 

Oil  of  Yarrow,  see  Oil  of  Milfoil. 


80  NON-OFFICIAL  ESSENTIAL   OILS. 

Oil  of  Ylang  YlaiiJ^. 

{(icrman :  Ylanjr- Ylang-Oel.) 

Distilled  in  ^Manila  from  the  flowers  of  CaiuuKjd  odordta  Hooker 
til.  et  Tlioinson  (Nat.  Ord.  Anonacen'). 

This  oil  is  noted  for  its  delicious  perfume,  especially  the  brand 
known  as  "Sartorius,"  which  represents  the  finest  attainable  quality. 
Specific  gravity  0.940  to  0.9oo.  Optical  rotation  — 45"  to  — 60\  It 
contains  an  ester  of  benzoic  acid,  and,  according  to  the  recent  re- 
searches of  Beychler  {Bull.  Soc.  Chim.,  1894,  11-12,  p.  407),  an  alcohol 
of  the  formula  d,,  H,^  O,  and  a  sesquiterpene.  The  alcohol,  which  has 
been  designated  as  "Ylangol,"  appears  to  bear  some  relation  to  geraniol. 
It  boils  l)etween  103  and  107'  C,  under  a  pressure  of  28  Mm.,  has  a 
specific  gravity  of  0.88f)  at  15"  C,  and  on  oxidation  with  a  chromic  acid 
mixture  yields  a  small  amount  of  a  substance  having  an  odor  resembling 
citral.     (See  also  Oil  of  Cananga,  Java.) 

Oil  of  Zedoary. 

{GcnmiH :  Zittwerwurzel-Oel.) 

Distilled  from  the  rhizome  of  Cnrcnma  Zedoaria  Roscoe  (Nat. 
prd.  Zingiheracca'). 

The  oil  has  a  pale  yellow  color,  and  a  camphor-like  odor.  Specific 
gravity  0.992.     It  contains  cineol,  CioHi^O. 


PART  III. 

ORGANIC  CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS. 


Acetic  Ether,  see  Ethyl  Acetate. 

Acid  Acetic,  Grlacial.  Acicluiii  Aceticuiu  Glaciale. 

{German :  Eisessig.)  C2  H^  O3  or  CH3-COOH. 

Nearly  or  quite  absolute  Acetic  Acid,  corresponding  to  the 
chai'acters  and  tests  described  in  the  U.  H.  Pliarmacopre-ia,   1890. 

Amyl  Acetate.    c,h,:-('-..h.o.. 

(German:  Amylacetat.) 

This  preparation  consists  chiefly  of  iso-amyl  acetate,  which  is  a 
colorless,  neutral  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  pear-like  odor,  and  is 
thei'efore  sometimes  known  as  "Pear  Oil."  Specific  gravity  0.875 
at  15"  C.     Boiling  point  about  loS'"  C. 

Amyl  Biityrate.    c.Hu-C.h.o,. 

[German :  Amylbutyrat.) 

This  x^repara-tion  consists  chiefly  of  iso-amyl  butyrate,  which  is  a 
colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  apricot-like  odor.  Specific  grav- 
ity 0.852  at  15'  C.     Boiling  point  about  178=  C. 

Amyl  Formate.    c,H.,-CHO.. 

(German :  Amylformiat.) 

This  j)reparation  consists  chiefly  of  i.so-amyl  formate,  whicli  is  a 
colorless  li(iuid,  having  a  fruity  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.874  at  21  C. 
Boiling  point  about  123"  C. 

Amyl  Nitrite,    an,, no..  Amy!  Nitris. 

(German :  Amylnitrit.) 

The  official  preparation  represents  a  liquid  containing  aliout  80 
per  cent,  of  amyl  (principally  iso-amyl)  nitrite,  together  with  variable 
quantities  of  undetei-mined  compounds. 

81 


82  ORGANIC   CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS. 

It  is  "a  clear,  yellow  or  pale  yellow  liquid,  having-  a  peculiar, 
ethereal,  fruity  odor,  and  a  puugent,  aromatic  taste.  Si)ecific  gravity 
O.tSTO  to  0.880.  It  is  A-ery  volatile,  even  at  a  low  temperature,  and 
is  inflammable,  l)uruing  with  a  fawn-colored  flame.  It  boils  at  about 
0(5"  to  99    C,  yielding  an  orange-colored  vajKn-."' 

^Ve  have  succeeded  in  producing  this  preparation  in  a  degree 
of  purity  which  is  rarely  met  with  in  a  commercial  article.  Our 
product  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.8789  at  15'  C,  and,  when  assayed 
by  the  ofticial  gasometi-ic  method,  yields  an  amount  of  nitric  oxide 
corresponding  to  100  per  cent,  of  pure  amyl  nitrite. 

Amyl  Nitrite  is  a  very  important  and  active  medicinal  agent. 

Aiiiyl  Talertauate.    c. H,,-( ., h.  o.. 

{German :  Amylvalerianat.) 

This  preparation  consists  chiefly  of  iso-amyl  valerianate,  whicli 
is  a  colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable  odor,  resembling  that  of 
apples,  and  is  therefore  sometimes  known  as  "Apple  Oil."  Specific 
gravity  0.879  at  0^  C.     Boiling  point  about  188°  C. 

Aliethol .      t '. 0  H,.  O  or  Ce  H4  ■;  ?S"cH-CH..,. 
[Para-methoxy-proi)enyl-benzol.] 
(German:  Anethol.) 

This  substance  represents  the  essential  constituent  of  the  oil  of 
anise  in  a  state  of  the  greatest  i^urity,  and  is  especially  characterized 
))y  its  pure  anise  flavor  and  fine  aroma,  as  also  by  the  following 
physical  properties  :  It  is  absolutely'  colorless,  melts  at  21"  to  22°  C, 
and  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.985  at  25°  C.  It  lioils  at  234°  C,  and 
is  optically  inactive. 

The  definite  cliaracters  of  auetliol  render  it  wAl  adapted  to  dis- 
place with  advantage  the  oil  of  anise  for  all  purposes  for  which  the 
latter  is  used. 

Anisic   Aldehj  de    {Anbepfne).      C.  H.  O..,  or  C,  H,  (OCH:0  COH. 

{Geniiaii :  Aiiisaldehyd.) 

This  substance  resembles  in  odor  the  blooming  Hawthorn  (Cra- 
tcegus).  It  is  a  definite  chemical  body,  having  the  following  characters: 
A  clear,  colorless  liquid.  Si)ecific  gravity  1.126  at  15  C.  Boiling  point 
245°  to  246°  C.  At  ordinary  temperatures  it  is  licjuid,  but  solidifies 
in  a  freezing  mixture  to  a  solid,  crystalline  mass,  winch  melts  at 
— 4°  C.  If  it  be  carefully  cooled  to  — 10  C.  it  still  remains  liquid, 
l)ut  will  at  once  solidify  on  bringing  in  a  trace  of  ciystallized  anisic 
aldeliyde,  when  the  temperature  rises  to  — 4'  C.  On  exposure  to  the 
air  it  oxidizes  readily  to  anisic  acid,  and  should  therefore  be  kept  in 
well-stoppered  liot ties,  which  should  be  as  completely  filled  as  possible. 
It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  is  nsed  in  perfunierv  and  in  soaps. 


ORGANIC   CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS.  83 

Apiol.     C,,Hi4  04. 

(German :  Apiol.) 

This  is  a  constituent  of  the  Oil  of  Parsley,  from  the  fruit  of 
Apium  PetroseliiiiiDi  Linne  {Petroselinum  sativum  Hoflfm.).  It  forms 
handsome,  needle-shaped  crj'stals,  which  melt  at  30°  C,  and  should 
therefore  be  kept  in  a  cool  i^lace  (see  Ber.  d.  deidsch.  chevi.  Geti.,  21, 
pp.  1621,  2516;  22,  p.  2481 ;  23,  p.  323).  It  has  been  used  to  some  extent 
as  a  substitute  for  quinine. 

Benzoic  Ether,  see  Etliyl  Beiizoate. 
Benzyl  Acetate.     c„  h.-ch.  -c...  h.  o.. 

(Gcrma)i :  Benzylacetat.) 

A  colorless  liqiiid,  having  an  aromatic,  i)ear-like  odor,  especial!}' 
Avlieu  diluted.     Specific  gravity  1.057  at  16.5"  C.     Boiling  point  206'  C. 

Berganiiol,  see  Linaloyl  Acetate. 
Bntyric  Ether,  see  Ethyl  Bntyrate. 

Borneol   {Borneo    Camplior,   Artip'cial).     Ci„Hi7-0H. 

(Gennan :  Borneol.) 

This  is  a  handsomely  crystallizable  suljstance,  having  an  odor 
quite  different  from  that  of  common  camphor,  and  reminding  some- 
what of  patchouly  and  ambergris.  It  melts  at  203°  to  204°  C,  and 
boils  at  212°  C.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  almost  insoluble 
in  water.  Borneol  i)ossesses  antiseptic  properties,  and  is  also  adapted 
for  use  in  perfumer}'. 

Iso-horneol.  Tliis  body,  as  its  name  indicates,  is  an  isomer  of  the 
above  described  borneol.  Its  odor  is  also  more  agreeable  than  tlie 
latter,  reminding  of  tansy  and  sage,  and  it  also  shows  marked 
differences  in  its  solubility  in  benzol  and  petroleum  beuzin,  and  in 
its  chemical  deportment.  It  melts  at  212"  C.  (in  a  closed  tube).  By 
dehydrating  agents  it  is  converted  into  camphene  CioHie,  and  by 
oxidation  it  forms  ordinary  camphor  CioHie  O  (see  Bertram  and 
Walbaum,  in  Jouni.  fur  xirakt.  Cliem.,  N.  F.,  49,  1894,  pp.  1-15;  also 
Conq^t.  rend.,  118,  p.  248;  and  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  BericJif,  October,  1893, 
p.  54,  April,  1894,  13.  66).  It  has  also  been  shown  by  Bertram  and 
Walliaum  that  the  borneol  of  commerce,  which  is  obtained  by  the 
reduction  of  connnon  camphor  with  sodium,  is  not  a  simple  body,  but 
a  mixture  of  borneol  and  iso-l)orneol,  in  wliich  tlie  former  predomi- 
nates. 

Borneol  or  Borneo  Camphor  occurs  as  a  natural  product  not  only 
in  the  wood  of  the  tree  known  botanically  as  tlie  Dryobalanopa 
aroDiatica  Giirtn.  (Nat.  Ord.  Dipterocarpece),  l)ut  has  also  been  found, 


84  ORGANIC   CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS. 

cliietly  iu  the  form  oi:  esters,  iu  tlie  following  essential  oils.  Oil  of 
Rosemary,  Satm-eja,  Spanish  Thj-me  {Tliynius  capitntus),  Valerian, 
Japanese  Valerian  (Kesso),  Picea  alba  (Spruce),  Abies  sibirica.  Pi  tins 
Picea,  Pinus  Pninilio,  Pi)iiis  sijlvestris,  and  CitroneUa. 

The  so-called  Blumea  Camphor  or  "Ngai"  Camphor  of  the 
Chinese,  from  Blumea  bulsamifera  DC.  (Nat.  Ord.  CompoHitce),  has 
the  same  composition  as  Borneo  Camphor,  and  ajipears  to  be  identical 
with  it,  with  the  exception  that  it  is  optically  lajvo-rotatory  in  about 
the  same  degi'ee  that  Borneo  camphor  is  dextro-rotatorj'. 

Boni.vl  Acetate.    c,uH„-c.h.o.. 

{Ocrtiutn  :  IJornylaoetat.) 

Tliis  body  is  found  in  many  of  the  pine-needle  oils,  and  possesses 
the  characteristic  aroma  of  the  latter.  It  crystallizes  iu  rhombic 
prisms,  which  melt  at  29°  C,  and  are  readily  soluble  in  alcohol. 
Specific  gravity  0.991  at  15°  C.  It  boils  at  106'  to  107°  C.  under  a  pressure 
of  15  Mm. 

It  is  admirably  adapted  for  replacing  the  pine  oils  in  con- 
fections, etc. 

Boriiyl  Formate.    Cu,h>,-cho.. 

{German:  Bornylformiat.) 

This  body  is  liquid,  but  its  odor  resembles  that  of  tlie  preceding 
acetate.  Specific  gravity  1.017  at  1")'  C.  It  boils  at  98^to  99'  C.  under 
a  pressure  of  about  15  Mm. 

Boruyl  Yaleriaiiate.    Cn.Ho-c.H^o,. 

(Girnuin  :  Bornyivalerianat.) 

This  body  is  an  essential  constituent  c^f  the  oil  of  valerian,  and 
probably  possesses  the  action  of  the  latter  to  an  increased  e.xtent. 
Specific  gravity  0.956  at  15'  C.  It  boils  at  128'  to  130'  C.  under  a 
pressure  of  abovit  10  ]Mm. 

Butyl  Acetate,    c,  h„-c.  h.  c. 

{German :  Butylacetat.) 

This  preparation  consists  chiefly  of  iso-butyl  acetate,  wliich  is  a 
colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  banana-like  odor.  Specific  gravity 
0.8845  at  16°  C.     Boiling  point  116'  C. 

Butyl  Butyrate.    c.h„-c,h,o.. 

{(li:riiuin :  lUuylbutyrat.) 

This  preparation  consists  chiefly  of  isobutyl  butyrate.  It  is  a 
colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  fruity  odor.  Specific  gravity 
about  0.870  at  15'  C.     Boiling  point  about  157'  C. 


ORGANIC   CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS.  85 

Butyl  Iso-sulpliocyaiuite,  see 

Oil  of  Coelilearia,  Synthetic,  Part  II. 

Butyl  Valerianate.    C.  H„-C.  H.  o.. 

(German :  Butylvalerianat.) 

This  preparation  consists  chiefly  of  iso-butyl  valerianate.  It  is  a 
colorless  Ii(piid,  having  an  agreealile,  frnity  odor.  Specific  gravity 
about  0.860  at  15^  C. 

Carvacrol.    C,„h,.-oh  or  c.  h..  c^^^z^ff^'^yiUiH:.. 

[Oxy-cymoL] 

(German :  Carvacrol.) 

Tliis  is  the  essential  constituent  of  the  Oil  of  Origanum,  Cretian, 
and  is  also  found  in  the  Oils  of  Thj'ine  and  Sunnner  Savory. 

It  is  a  thickish,  aromatic  liquid,  which  solidities  at  — 25 C,  and  is 
isomeric  with  carvol.  Specific  gravity  0.981  at  15'  C.  Boiling  point 
236'  to  337'  C.  Its  alcoholic  solution  is  colored  green,  by  ferric 
chloride. 

Carveiie.    CioHi„. 

(German :  Carven.) 

This  hydrocarbon  is  found  in  the  Oil  of  Caraway,  and  is  identical 
with  dextrogyrate  limonene.  Specific  gravity  0.850  at  15'  C.  Boiling 
point  175"  to  176'  C. 

€arvol.     Cu,Hi,0  or  c.H,.c<gg-[:[i'>CH.CH.. 

(German:  Carvol.) 

This  body,  which  is  chemically  a  ketone,  is  the  essential  constituent 
of  Oil  of  Caraway,  and  is  also  found  in  a  dextrogyrate  form  in  the  Oil 
of  Dill,  while  its  lajvogyrate  modification  occurs  in  the  Oil  of  Spear- 
mint. It  is  officially  recognized  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  which 
describes  it  as  follows:  "A  pale  yellowish  or  colorless  liquid,  having 
a  fine  odor  of  caraway.  Specific  gravity  0.960.  Boiling  point  224'  C. 
1  Cc.  of  carvol,  diluted  with  1  Cc.  of  alcohol,  should  either  not  be 
changed  or  assume  only  a  slight  reddish  or  violet  color  on  the  addition 
of  a  drop  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride."  The  latter  solution  should 
for  this  j)urpose  be  quite  dilute. 

Carvol  possesses  all  the  valuable  properties  of  the  Oil  of  Caraway 
in  a  perfectly  pure  and  definite  form.  It  also  has  the  advantage  over 
the  latter  oil  of  being  much  more  freely  soluble  in  diluted  alcohol. 

Citral.     Cn,Hu,o. 

(German  :  Citral.) 

This  body,  as  its  name  indicates,  is  cliemically  an  aldehyde,  and 
represents  in  a  state  of  the  greatest  purity  the  delightful  aroma  of 


86  ORGANIC   CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS. 

lemuu  oil,  l»eliig  contained  in  the  latter  to  the  amount  of  ahout  7.5 
per  cent. 

It  is  a  goldeu-yellow  li^inid,  liaviug  a  specific  gravity  of  0.899  at 
15"  C.  It  boils  at  116^  C  under  a  pressure  of  Ki  Mm.,  or,  when 
perfectly  pure,  at  228"  to  229'  C.  under  ordinary  pressure,  without 
decomposition. 

By  means  of  the  special  aldehyde  reaction  described  under 
CitroneUal,  Citral  maybe  converted  into  the  so-caHed  citnjl-.i-niqjhto- 
cinclioninic  acid,  CioHe^Q-.'^-H"^"'  ^vhich  forms  lemon-yellow  lamina?, 

fusing  at  197^  C.  "^^^^ 

Citral  has  the  advantage  of  being  much  more  freely  soluble  in 
diluted  alcohol  than  the  oil  of  lemon,  but  is  best  used  in  combination 
with  the  latter  in  order  to  obtain  the  desired  freshness  of  aroma. 
This  may  be  attained  by  mixing  1  part  of  Citral  with  15  parts  of  pure 
Oil  of  Lemon,  and  this  combination  is  equivalent  in  strength  and 
aroma  to  twice  its  Aveight  of  good  lemon  oil. 

To  protect  Citral  from  change  it  .shouM  b(^  kept  in  a  cool  aiid 
dark  place. 

Besides  being  an  essential  constituent  of  the  oil  of  lenion,  Messrs. 
Schimmel  &  Co.  have  found  Citral  to  occur  in  the  oils  of  the  fruit  of 
Citrus  Liiuettii  Risso  (Liune),  Citrus  Madurensis  Loun.  (Mandarin), 
Tetrantherd  citrata  Nees  (Citi'onella  Fruit),  Xatdho.vylum  piperitnm 
DC.  (Japanese  Pepper),  and  in  the  oils  of  Andropogon  citrat^is  DC, 
Eucalyptus  Stairjcriaua,  and  Bockliausia  cifriodora  {Bertcht,  April. 
1891,  p.  52). 

CitroneUal  or  Citroiiella  Aldeliyde.     <   .h.o. 

(German :  Citronellaldchyii.) 

This  body  occurs  in  the  Oil  of  Citronella,  Oil  of  Eucalyptus 
macidida,  var.  citriodora,  and  in  very  small  amount  in  the  Oil  of 
Lemon.  It  was  formerly  regarded  as  a  ketone,  and  therefore  received 
the  designation  citroneUone  (see  Schimmel  &  Co.'s  Bericht,  October, 
1888,  p.  17). 

It  is  a  colorless  liquid,  having  a  very  agreeable,  somewhat  lemon- 
like odor,  i-eminding  also  of  citronella  oil,  but  much  finer  than  the 
latter.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  0.880  at  15"  C.  It  distills  between 
205'  and  210"  C,  with  slight  decomposition  {BeHcht,  October,  1890.  p. 
21).  Compare  also  Seimnler,  in  Ber.  d.  deidscli.  cliem.  Ges.,  24,  p.  209.  26, 
p.  2254;  Kremers,  in  Amcr.  Chein.  Journ.,  XFV,  p.  208;  and  Dodge, 
Ibidem,  XI,  p.  456,  and  XII,  p.  553. 

An  aiiparently  specific,  and  therefore  very  valuable  reaction  for 
aldehydes,  by  means  of  which  they  may  be  detected  in  essential  oils 


ORGANIC  CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS. 


or  separated  therefrom  in  the  form  of  well  crystallizable  compounds, 
has  recently  been  jjroposed  l»y  O.  Doebner  (see  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  chein. 
Ges.,  27,  1894,  p.  352).  It  depends  ujion  the  formation  of  a-alkyl-/3- 
naphtocinchouinic  acids,  by  bringing  together  a  molecule  of  the  alde- 
hyde with  a  molecule  each  of  iiyro-racemic  acid  and  /S-uaphtylamine. 
The  reaction  appears  to  be  characteristic  of  the  aldehydes  and  does 
not  take  place  with  other  bodies  which  likewise  contain  a  carbonyl 
group,  CO,  such  as  ketones,  lactones,  and  the  anhydrides  of  dibasic 
acids.     Thus  citrouella  aldehyde    forms  the   so-called    citroneUone-j3- 

naphtociuchouimcacklC.oB.e^cJc^''^''''  which  crystallizes  in  color- 
less needles,  fusing  at  225'  C.        COOH 


CH.O.  or  C.H4<^^  -  V*' 
CH  =  CH. 


Cumarin,  Synthetic. 

(Girinaii :  Cumarin.) 

This  is  the  aromatic  or  odorous  principle  of  the  Tonka  Bean,  and 
is  found  also  in  the  Sweet  Clover  {Melilofus),  and  in  the  numerous 
other  plants  enumerated  below. 

Cumarin  is  a  definite  chemical  substance,  and  that  produced  by 
us  synthetically  is  perfectly  identical  in  every  respect  Avith  the  same 
substance  obtained  from  any  of  its  various  natural  sources,  while  .having 
the  advantage  of  absolute  purity.  It  forms  small,  colorless  crystals, 
which  fuse  at  67'  C. 

On  account  of  its  exceedingly  agreeable  odor,  it  has  become  a 
very  important  article  in  the  manufacture  of  perfumery,  for  perfuming 
soaps,  etc. ,  and  may  replace  with  advantage  the  Tonka  Bean,  wherever 
the  latter  has  heretofore  been  used.  It  is  soluble  to  a  greater  or  less 
extent  in  most  of  the  ordinary  solvents.  The  following  table,  re- 
presenting its  solubility  in  alcohol  of  different  percentage  strengths, 
and-  in  water,  at  different  degrees  of  temperature,  will  be  found 
practically  usef  nl : 


lOO  Parts  of  Alcohol 

Dissolve 
at  0°  C. 

Dissolve 
at  16  to  17°  C. 

Dissolve 
at;i9to30°C'. 

Of  90  per  cent,  bv  volume 

"   80    "      "       •'         "       

7  1  parts 
6.0      "     ■ 
4.4      " 
3.2      " 
1.7      " 
0.7      " 
0.3      " 
0.2      •' 
0.15    '■ 

13.7  parts 

12.3      " 

9.1       " 

6.0       " 

3.4  " 

1.5  " 
0.6      " 
0.4      " 
0.25     " 

42.5  parts 
38. 3      ' ' 

"   70    "      "       "         "       

26.0      " 

"  60    "      "       "        "       

16.0      " 

"  50    '•      "      "        "       

8  9      " 

"  40    "      "       "         "       

3  9      " 

"   30    "      "       "         "       

17 

'•  20    "      "       "         "       

"   10    "      "       "         "       

0.8       " 
0  5 

100  Parts  ot  Water 

0.12    •■ 

0.18     " 

0.27     " 

The  Avide  distribution  of  Cumarin  in  the  vegetable  kingdom 
is  indicated  by  the  following  enumeration  of  the  plants  or  parts  of 
plants  in  which  it  has  thus  far  been  found: 


I 


88 


ORCJAXIC   CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS. 


ORCHIDACEiE. 


Caryophyllace^ 

RUTACE.-E. 

Legujunos^. 


FiLiCES  (Polypodiaceae).     Adiantlni.in  pedatum  Lixine  (Herb). 

"  peruvianuin  Linue  (Herb). 

"  trapeziforme  Linne  (Herb). 

Dr)jnan'(i,  Wildenoi'i  (Herb). 
P.\LJL«.  Plioenix dactylifera  Linne  (the  common  Date). 

Gramine^e.  Anthoxanthum  odoratnm  Linne  (Herb). 

Ataxia  Horsfeldii  (Herb). 
Cinna  arundinacea  Linne  (Herb). 
Hierochloa  alpina  R.  &  S.  (Herb). 
australis  R.  &  S.  (Herb). 
"  borealis  R.  &  S.  (Rhizome). 

Milium  effnsum  Linne  (Herb). 
Aceras  anthropophora  R.  Br.  (Herb). 
Angrecum  fragvans  Thouars  (Leaves). 
Nigritella  angustifolia  Rich.  (Herb). 
Orchis  fusca  Jacqu.  (Herb). 
Herniaria  glabra  Linne  (Herb). 
Rata  grnvedlens  Linne  (Herb). 
Copaifera  SalikoiDtda  Heckel  (Ripe  Seed). 
Dipterix  odorata  AVilld.  (Rii)e  Seed). 
"        opposiiifolia  Willd.  (Ripe  Seed). 
"        Pteropits  Mart.  (Ripe  Seed). 
3Ielilotus  albvs  Desr.  (Flowers  and  Herb). 
"         o/h's.s2H«i.sThuillier(Flowers&Herb). 
"         hamatus  Stocks.   (Flowers  &  Herb): 
' '         leucanthus  "W.  &  A.  (Flowers  &  Herb). 
"         officinalis  Desr.  (Flowers  and  Herb). 
Tohiifera  Balsariuna  Miller  (Fruit). 
Apocynace^.  Ahjxia  stellafa  R.  &  S.  (Bark). 

RuBiACE^.  Aspcrida  odorata  Linne  (Herb). 

Galium  triflorum  Michx.  (Herb). 
Composite.  Liatris  odoratissima  Willd.  (Herb). 

"        spicata  Willd.  (Herb). 
Agcratum  mexicanum  Sims  (Herb). 

Oyiiiol  or  Cymeiie.    c.Hm  or  CoH4<^J'^. 

[Para  meth.yl-isoproii.vl  l)i'ii7,nl.] 
(Gcrincni:  Cymol.) 

This  lij'drocarbon  occurs  in  the  oils  of  cumin,  tliyme,  ajowan,  and 
some  other  essential  oils.  It  is  a  colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable 
odor.     Specific  gravity  0.8GT8  at  12    C.      Boiling  point  175"  to  176"  C. 

Etlier,  Oenailtliic   {Cognac    Oil,  Artifcial). 

{(iiTmiiii :  ( )cn;uit  bather  or  Kiinstlichcs  Cog-nac-Oel.) 

Tliis  consists  t)f  the  ethyl  esters  of  the  higher  monobasic  fatty 
neids.     It  is  a  colorless,  oily  lic^uid,  having  a  characteristic  cognac  like 


i 


i^ 


ORGANIC   CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS.  89 

odor.  It  has  in  recent  years  been  cousiderablj-  employed,  for  imparting  a 
fruity  aroma  to  soaps,  and  a  specially  agreeal)le  effect  is  produced  by 
mixing  it  with  a  little  Peru  balsam,  and  the  oils  of  cassia  and  lavender. 

Ether,  Sebacic.    (C..h,o.c,„h.„o.. 

(German :  ScbacinsiiureiithGi'.) 

A  colorless  or  slightlj^  yellowish  liquid,  having  a  slightly  aromatic 
odor.  Specific  gravity  0.968.  Boiling  point  311°  C.  at  762  Mm. 
barometric  pressure. 

Etliyl  Acetate  {Acetic  Ether).  Aether  Aceticus. 

(German:  Aethylacetiit.    Essigiither.)  C2Hr.-C2H3*>2. 

This  preparation  is  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopceia,  1890, 
to  which  reference  may  be  made  for  a  full  description  of  its  characters. 
The  article  supplied  by  us  is  perfectly  pure,  and  meets  all  the  official  re- 
quirements, which  is  not  the  case  with  much  of  the  commercial  article. 

Ethyl  Beiizoate  (Benzoic  Ether).     C.H,-C.H.O.. 

(German  :  Aethylbenzoat.) 

A  colorless,  aromatic  liqviid.  Specific  gravity  1.055  at  15'  C. 
Boiling  point  212'  to  213°  C. 

Ethyl  Butyrate   {Butyric  Ether).      C  H.-C.  H,  O.. 

(Germein :  Aethylbtityrat.) 

A  colorless,  neutral  liquid,  possessing  in  a  diluted  condition  an 
agreeable,  pineapple-like  odor  and  taste ;  it  is  therefore  sometimes 
known  as  "Pineapple  Oil."  Specific  gravity  0.900  at  18  C.  Boiling- 
point  120'  to  12r  C. 

It  is  used  for  imparting  flavor  to  confections  and  lieverages. 

Ethyl  Formate  {Eormic  Ether).     C  h.-cho.. 

(German  :  Aethylformiat.) 

A  colorless,  very  limpid,  neutral  liquid,  of  ag'reeable  odor.  Specific 
gravity  0.915  at  15'  C.     Boiling  point  54    to  55'  C. 

Ethyl  Nitrite  {Xitrous  Ether).     CH.no,. 

(German:  Aethyliiitrit.    Salpetrig-sauro  Aethylathor.) 

Pure  ethj-l  nitrite  is  a  mobile  liquid,  having  a  penetrating,  but 
agreeable,  apple-like  odor.  It  has  a  sjiecific  gravity  of  0.900  at  15  C, 
and  boils  at  18'  C.  It  is  only  used  in  the  form  of  an  alcoholic 
solution,  such  as  the  official  Spirit  of  Nitrous  Ether  {S2nritns  Aetlieris 
Nifnm,  U.  S.  P.),  which  contains  about  4  pL>r  cent,  of  pure  ethyl  nitrite. 

As  pure  ethyl  nitrite  has  too  low  a  boiling  point  to  permit  of  its 
being  conveniently  or  safely  kept,  we  i)repare  it  in  the  form  of  a 
£0  X)er  cent,  alcoholic  solution,  which  has  a  specific  gravity  of  0.833 
at  15'  C.  To  prepare  from  this  the  official  Spirit  of  Nitrous  Ether, 
it  is  simply  necessary  to  mix  one  (1)  volume  of  the    concentrated 


90  ORGANIC  CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS. 

solution  witli  four  (4)  volumes  of  Deodoi-ized  Alcohol.  The  alcohol 
used  for  tliis  purpose  should  have  a  specific  gravity  of  about  0.816 
at  15°  C,  coiTespouding  to  about  9.").1  per  cent,  by  volume  of  pure 
ethyl  alcohol.  In  contact  with  diluted  alcohol  or  water,  nitrous  ether 
is  quite  rapidly  decomposed. 

Ethyl  Oxalate  {Oxalic  Ether).     (C. H.). C O.. 

{German :  Aethyloxalat.    OxalSther.) 

A  colorless,  limpid  liquid,  having  a  slightly  aromatic,  acidulou.s 
odor.     Specific  gravity  1.0824  at  15"  C.     Boiling  point  185°  C. 

Ethyl  Salicylate  {Salicylic  Ether).     C.H.-C.  H.-,0:,. 

(Gcrinun :  Aethylsalicylat.) 

A  colorless,  or  faintly  yellowish,  aromatic  li(|uid.  Specific  gravity 
1.13-45  at  15^  C.     Boiling  jwint  231"  to  232°  C. 

Ethyl  Yaleriauate  ( Valerianic  Ether).      C2H5-C5H1.O,. 

(German :  Aethylvalerianat.) 

A  colorless,  neutral  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  fruity  odor. 
Specific  gravity  0.866  at  18°  C.     Boiling  jjoint  about  135°  C. 

Eiiealyptol  {Cineol).  Eiualyptol. 

(Gcnnan:  Eucalyptol.)  CioHigO. 

This  article  has  received  official  recognition  in  the  U.  S.  Pharma- 
copoeia of  1890,  where  its  characters  are  fully  and  accurately  described. 
It  is  the  most  valuable  constituent  of  the  Eucalyptus  Oils,  and,  being 
a  definite  chemical  substance,  has  the  advantage  over  the  latter  of  being 
of  constant  composition.  The  following  characters  are  especially 
indicative  of  its  purity:  "A  ccjlorless  liquid,  having  a  chai'acteristic, 
aromatic,  and  distiuctly  camplioraceous  odor.  Specific  gravity  0  930 
at  15°  C.  Boiling  point  176°  to  177°  C.  It  is  optically  inactive.  AVhen 
exposed  to  a  temperature  some  degrees  below  0°  C,  or  placed  in  a 
freezing  mixture,  it  solidifies  to  a  mass  of  colorless,  needle-shaped 
crystals,  which  liquefy  at  — 1°  C." 

The  wide  distribution  of  eucalyptol  or  cineol  will  be  indicated 
by  the  following  enumeration  of  the  essential  oils  in  which  it  has  thus 
far  been  observed  to  occur. 

These  are  grouped  according  to  the  natiu-al  orders  of  tlie  respect- 
ive plants  whicli  afford  them  : 

;MYRTArF..-T:.  Eucalyptus  globulus,   E.    oleosa,   E.   odorata,    E.   ro- 

strata,    E.   microcori/s,  E.  Bayleyana,  and  E.  amyg- 
dalina.     Melaleuca  Leucadendron,    Myrtus    Cheken, 
and  Myrtus  eomiuunis. 
CoMPOSiT.*:.  Arteuiisid  paiiciflora  {A.  Cina). 

Labiat.-k.  Lavandula  dentata,    L.  Sjyica,    L.  stoechas,    Mentha 

piperita,  Rosmarinus  officiualis.   Salvia  officinalis. 


I 


ORGANIC    CHE:\IICAL   PREPARATIONS.  91 

Laurace.-e.  Laurus    Camphot-d,    Lauriis   commnin's,    (hrodaphne 

calif om  tea. 
Canellace^.        Canella  alba. 
ZiNGiBERACE.E.     AlpUiia  offlciuarnin.   Ciirciniia  Zcdoaria.  and  Ka-inp- 

feria  rotunda. 

Enu'eiiol.      C,«  H,,  0-,or  C.-,  H3-^'  OCH3 

jOH. 

[Para-oxy-meta-methox y-all ji  benzol.] 
{German:  Eugenol.) 

This  is  the  essential  constituent  of  the  oil  of  cloves,  in  which 
it  occurs  in  amounts  of  about  75  to  90  i^er  cent.  It  is  also  found 
in  the  oil  of  pimenta,  oil  of  bay,  oil  of  massoy  bark,  and  in  small 
amounts  in  the  oils  of  ceylon  cinnamon,  sassafras,  and  in  camphor  oil. 
It  is  a  monatomic  phenol.  When  freshly  distilled  it  forms  a  colorless 
liquid,  having  an  odor  and  taste  strongly  resembling  that  of  the  oil 
of  cloves.  Specific  gravity  1.072  at  lo'  C.  Boiling  point  2o3'  to  254°  C. 
(mercurial  column  entirely  in  the  vapor).  It  should  form  a  clear 
solution  with  a  one  or  two  per  cent,  solution  of  potassiuna  hydrate. 

Eugenol  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  the  oil  of  cloves, 
and.  being  a  body  of  definite  and  constant  composition,  its  purity  may 
readily  be  determined  by  the  above  mentioned  characters. 

Formic  Ether,  sec  Ethyl  Formate. 
Geraiiiol.    c,„h,.-oh. 

(GciiiKin:  Geraniol.) 

Tliis  is  the  chief  constituent  of  the  true  Geranium  Oils  and  of  the 
so-called  Turkish  Geranium  or  Palmarosa  Oil.  It  has  also  quite 
recently  been  shown  to  represent  the  chief  constituent  of  the  liquid 
portion  of  the  Oil  of  Rose  (see  the  latter),  and  it  occvirs  in  smaller 
amounts  in  the  Oil  of  Citronella,  Oil  of  Lavender  Flowers,  and  the 
Oil  of  Eucalypdus  macnlata,  var.  citriodora. 

Geraniol  is  chemically  a  monatomic  alcohol.  In  a  perfectly  pure 
state,  as  now  prepared  by  us,  it  forms  a  colorless  li(|uid,  having  a  frag- 
rant, rose-like  odor.  Specific  gravity  0.883  to  0.885  at  15°  C.  Boiling 
point  230'  C.  Optically  inactive.  One  part  of  geraniol  yields  with  12  to 
15  times  its  volume  of  50  per  cent,  alcohol  a  perfectly  clear  solution. 

Geraniol  is  very  readily  oxidized,  even  by  exposure  to  the  air,  and 
its  specific  gravity  and  boiling  point  become  thereby  increased.  It  is 
tlierefore  important  that  it  should  be  kept  in  well- stoppered  bottles, 
which  should  be  as  completely  filled  as  possible,  and  stored  in  a  cool  place. 

By  oxidation  with  a  chromic  acid  mixture  it  is  converted  into 
citral,  and  with  potassium  permanganate  it  yields  iso-valerianic  acid. 
Dehydrating  agents  convert  it  into  teri^enes  (dipentene  and  terjiinene). 

Pure  geraniol  promises  to  be  of  great  value  to  the  perfumer  and 
soapmaker.      It  has  a  much  finer  odor  than  tlie  geranium  oils,  and 


92  ORGANIC   CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS. 

it  is  not  improbaljle  that  in  sonie  cases  it  may  l)e  capable  even  <>{ 
replacing  rose  oil  itself  (see  Schininiel  &  Co. 's  Bericht,  April,  1894, 
pp.  48  and  03). 

Gerauyl  Acetate.    c.oHiT-CaH.o,. 

(Germnn :  Geranylacetat.) 

This  is  a  colorless  liquid,  liaving  an  odor  resenil)ling  tluit  of  oil 
of  lavender  flowers,  but  still  finer.  It  lK)ils  at  111  to  115'  C,  under 
a  i3res.sxire  of  about  10  Mm. 

It  is  of  great  practical  value  in  perfumery. 

Geraiiyl  Formate.    c.„H:,-cho.. 

(Gcnnau  :  Goranylformiat.) 

This  conijwund  has  a  characteristic,  agreeable  odor.  It  boils  at 
104"  to  105°  C,  under  a  jn-essure  of  about  10  Mm. 

O 
Heleiiill   {Alanto-lactone).     C14H00C0. 

(German:  Helenin.) 

A  crj-stalline  substance  obtained  from  Elecampane,  the  root  of 
Inula  Helenixm  Linne.  It  fuses  at  76'  C.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in 
water,  but  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  ether.  When  heated  with 
sohitions  of  the  alkalies  it  is  converted  into  the  corresponding  salt  of 

alantic  acid,  CjiHooCOOH.  (See  also  Oil  of  Elecampane,  Part  II.)  It 
is  said  to  be  efhcacious  in  the  treatment  of  cholera,  in  whooping 
cough  with  children,  and  to  possess  valuable  antiseptic  properties. 

Heliotropill   {Plperonal) .      C.  H„  O3  or  CH.,  <  %  > C„  H.-COH. 

[Mcthyk'iie  ether  of  pi-otocatechuic  aldehyde] 
{Gi-rman :  Hcliotropin.) 

This  especially  fine  substance  i^ossesses  in  a  high  degree  the  ex- 
quisite odor  of  tlie  Heliotrope  flower  {HeJioivopium perui'ianum  Linne), 
and  has  therefore  become  an  estal)lished  and  most  valuable  article 
in  perfumery.  It  forms  small,  colorless,  shining  crystals,  which  fuse 
at  37°  C,  and  at  higher  temperatures  volatilize  without  leaving  any 
residue.  It  is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but  readilj'  soluble  in 
alcohol,  ether,  vaseline  and  glycerin.  It  is  unfavorably  influenced  Iw 
heat  and  light,  and  shoidd  therefore  be  kept  in  a  cool,  dark  place, 
or,  in  warm  climates,  preserved  in  alcoholic  solution. 

It  is  used  for  imparting  the  delightfid  heliotrope  odor  to  perfumes, 
soaps,  and  pomades,  and  is  often  advantageously  combined  with 
cumarin  or  various  essential  oils,  such  as  lavender,  geranium,  sandal- 
wood and  i^etit  grains. 

Linalool.    c.oH„-oh. 

(Girmaii :  Linalool.) 

This  is  the  essential  and  fragrant  constituent  of  the  Oil  of  Linaloe 
see   the  latter.  Part  II),   and   has   also   been   found,  either   in   the  free 


I 


ORGANIC  CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS.  93 

state  or  in  the  form  of  esters,  in  the  oils  of  lavender,  bergamot,  petit 
(Crains,  and  coriander.  A  similar,  if  not  identical  body,  "uerolol," 
lias  been  found  in  the  oil  of  neroli,  and  the  so-called  "  asax-ol,"  occurring 
in  the  oil  of  Asarnm  Canadense  Linne  (see  the  latter.  Part  II),  is  like- 
wise apparently  identical  with  linalool. 

Linalool  is  a  colorless,  or  nearly  colorless,  fragrant  liquid,  having 
the  chai'acters  of  a  monatomic  alcohol.  By  oxidation  with  a  chromic 
acid  mixture  it  is  converted  into  citral.  Specific  gravity  0.878  at  15°  C. 
Boiling  point  197""  to  198°  C.  It  occurs  in  two  optically  different 
modifications,  being  either  dextrogyrate  or  la?vogyrate.  It  forms  a 
perfectly  clear  solution  with  3  volumes  or  more  of  70  per  cent,  alcohol 
(see  Ber.  d.  deutsch.  cheiu.  Ges.,  24,  1891,  p.  207). 

Linalool  is  a  highly  esteemed  article  in  perfumery. 

Linaloyl  Acetate  {Bergcmiiol).    C10H17-C,  H3O,. 

{German :  Linaloylacetat.) 

This  ester  has  a  strong  bergamot  odor,  and  is  indeed  one  of  the 
principal  constituents  of  bergamot  oil.  It  boils  at  108°  to  110°  C, 
under  a  pressure  of  about  10  Mm. 

It  is  a  valuable  article  in  perfumeiy. 

Linaloyl  Formate.     Cu,h„-cho,. 

{German :  Linalojil'ormiat.) 

This  ester  has  an  odor  reminding  of  the  oils  of  jjetit  grains  and 
bergamot.     It  boils  at  100°  to  103°  C,  under  a  pressure  of  about  10  Mm. 

Menthol.    Cu,h,„-oh.  Menthol. 

{German:  Menthol.) 

This  article  has  received  official  recognition  in  the  U.  S.  Pharma- 
copoeia of  1890,  and  in  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  where  its  general 
physical  characters  and  tests  for  purity  are  described. 

It  forms  "colorless,  acicular  or  ijrismatic  crystals,  having  a  strong 
and  pure  odor  of  peppermint,  and  a  warm,  aromatic  taste,  followed  by 
a  sensation  of  cold,  when  air  is  drawn  into  the  mouth.  It  melts  at 
43'  C.  to  a  colorless  liquid,  boils  at  212°  C,  and  volatilizes  slowly  at  the 
ordinary  temperature.  Its  alcoholic  solution  is  neutral  to  litmus  paper, 
and  deviates  polarized  light  to  the  left."  The  boiling  point  of  pure 
menthol  w^e  find  to  be  at  215.5°  C,  with  the  mercurial  column  of  the 
thermometer  entirely  in  the  vapor,  and  with  a  barometric  pressure  of 
758  Mm. 

Menthol  is  undoubtedly  the  most  valuable  constituent  of  Pej^per- 
mint  Oil  (compare  the  latter.  Part  I).  Its  chemical  deportment  indi- 
cates it  to  be  a  secondary  alcohol,  yielding  by  moderate  oxidation 
with  a  chromic  acid  mixture  the  ketone  known  as  menthone,  CioHitO, 
and  with  organic  acids  it  combines  to  form  esters,  such,  for  example, 


94  ORGANIC   CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS. 

as  those  below  described.  By  the  action  of  dehydrating  agents, 
mentliol  is  converted  into  the  hydrocarbon  menthene  CiuHi^.,  which 
boils  at  167"  C.  (For  some  interesting  papers  on  bodies  belonging  to 
the  so-called  menthol  group,  seeKi'emers,  in  Proc.  A)ner.  Pharm.  Ahsoc, 
1893,  pp.  273-287;  Ibidem,  1893,  pp.  185-195;  and  Wallach,  in  Liebig's 
Annalen,  276,  p.  296,  and  277,  p.  154.) 

Menthol  is  used  medicinally  for  a  variety  of  pui-poses,  both 
internall}',  extei-nally,  and  in  the  form  of  inhalation. 

Meiithji  Formate.    c,oH,.,-cho,. 

(Gcruian  :  ilenthylformiat.) 

This  is  the  foi'mic  acid  ester  of  menthol.  It  congeals  at  9°  C, 
and  boils  at  95'  C,  under  a  pressure  of  about  10  Mm, 

Meiithyl  Valerianate.    c,,,h,,-c.h.o.. 

(German :  Menthylvalenaiiiit.) 

This  is  the  valerianic  acid  ester  of  menthol.  It  .boils  at  125"  to 
127°  C,  under  a  pressure  of  about  10  Mm. 

Both  of  the  above  compounds  may  be  assumed  to  possess  medi- 
cinal value  and  interest. 

Methyl  Beuzoate  {Mobe  Oil).    CH.-c.HaO.. 

{German :  Mcthylbenzoat.) 

A  colorless,  aromatic  liquid,  almost  insoluble  in  water.  Specific 
gravity  1.0950  at  15=  C.     Boiling  point  197.5'  to  199.5=  C. 

Methyl  Salicylate,  see 

Oil   of  Wiutergreeii,   Synthetic,  Part  I. 

Methyl  Taleriauate.    CH^-CsH.o,. 

(German :  Methjivalerianat.) 

A  colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable,  fruitj'  odor.  Specific 
gravitj'  0.885  at  17'  C.     Boiling  point  about  116°  C. 

Myrtol. 

(German :  Myrtol.; 

This  preparation  is  not  a  simple,  definite  substance,  but  consists  of 
that  portion  of  Oil  of  Myrtle  (see  the  latter,  Part  II)  boiling  between 
160°  and  180  C,  and  is  therefore  a  mixture  of  dextrogyrate  pinene, 
cineol,  and  dipentene.  Its  medicinal  properties  are  similar  to  those 
of  the  Oil  of  Myrtle. 

Neroliii  I. 

(German:  Nerolin.t 

This  substance  represents  in  a  remarkable  degree  the  perfume  of 
the  Oil  of  Neroli  or  Orange  Flowers,  and  is  capable  of  replacing  the 


ORGANIC   CHEMICAL   PREPARATIONS.  95 

latter  in  perfumes  and  soaps.  It  occurs  in  handsome,  white,  scale- 
like crystals,  wliich  are  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  in  the  essential 
and  fatty  oils.  It  melts  at  35'  C,  and  shovild  therefore  be  kept  in  a 
cool  place. 

Nitrous  Etlier,  see  Etliyl  Nitrite. 
Oxalic  Ether,  see  Ethyl  Oxalate. 

Safrol.      CioHu.O,  or  CH.<E]>C.H3-C3H5. 
[Methylene  ether  of  allyl-dioxybenzol.] 
(German :  Safrol.) 

This  is  the  essential  constituent  of  the  Oil  of  Sassafras,  and  it  is 
also  contained  in  Camphor  Oil.  At  ordinary  temi^eratures  it  is  a  per- 
fectly colorless  liquid,  possessing  in  a  high  degree  the  pure  aromatic 
odor  of  sassafras.  Specific  gravity  1.108  at  15'  C.  Boiling  point  232^ 
to  233  C.  It  is  optically  inactive.  At  slightly  reduced  temperatures 
pure  safrol  forms  large,  monoclinic  prisms,  which  melt  at  13"  C. 

Safrol  is  a  definite  chemical  substance,  of  constant  composition, 
and  is  now  produced  by  our  Leipsic  house  on  a  very  large  scale,  and 
in  the  highest  degree  of  purity.  It  therefore  possesses  many  advantages 
over  tlie  Oil  of  Sassafras  and  similar  mixtures,  which  are  often  merely 
impure  fractional  distillates  of  camphor  oil.  On  account  of  its  pure 
and  highly  agreeable  odor  it  has  become  almost  indispensable  in  the 
manufacture  of  soaps,  etc.  (Compare  Oil  of  Sassafras,  Part  I,  and 
Oil  of  Camphor,  Part  II.) 

Salicylic  Ether,  see  Ethyl  Salicylate. 

Terebene.  Terebeuum. 

(German :  Tereben.) 

This  preparation  has  been  oflicially  recognized  for  the  first  time 
in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopeia  of  1890.  A  recent  investigation,  conducted 
in  our  Garfield  laboratories  (see  PJiarm.  Buiidsdiau,  N.  Y.,  January, 
1894),  has  shown,  however,  that  the  commonly  accepted  definition  and 
description  of  this  compound  should  be  slightly  modified.  As  prepared 
by  us,  according  to  the  process  originally  suggested  by  Deville,  it  has 
the  following  characters:  A  colorless  liquid,  having  an  agreeable, 
somewhat  aromatic  odor,  reminding  of  cymol.  Specific  gravity  about 
0.855  at  15°  C.  Boiling  point  between  170°  and  185°  C.  It  is  perfect hj 
inactive  optically.  It  consists  chiefly  of  the  hydrocarbons  dipentene 
and  terpinene,  with  some  cymol  and  camphene.  On  account  of  its 
tendency  to  become  resinified  on  exposure  to  light  and  air,  it  should 
be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a  cool  place. 

A  particularly  important  test  for  the  purity  of  this  preparation  is  its 
optical  inactivit}',  as  the  presence  of  unaltered  oil  of  turj^entine  can 
thus  easily  be  detected. 


96  ORGANIC   CHEMICAL  PREPARATIONS. 

Terebene  is  regarded  as  a  valuable  stimulant  expectorant,  especially 
in  that  form  of  chronic  bronchitis  known  as  winter  cough.  It  is  also 
stated  to  be  an  active  antiseptic  and  germicide. 

Terpiii  Hydrate.    c.„h,.(OH).+h.o         Terpini  Hydras. 

(German :  Terpinhydrat.) 

This  preparation,  like  the  preceding,  has  been  officiallj^  recognized 
for  the  first  time  in  the  U.  8.  Pharmacf>pfeia  of  1890.  where  its 
characters  are  fully  described. 

Terpiiieol.    C:„h„-oh. 

(German :  Tei-jjineol.) 

This  is  a  definite  chemical  body,  having  the  characters  of  a 
monatomic  alcohol,  and  was  first  brought  into  commerce  by  Messrs. 
Schimmel  &  Co.,  of  Leipsic.  It  is  a  colorless,  thick  liquid,  having 
a  pleasant  odor,  strongly  resembling  that  of  fresh  lilac  flowers  {Syringa 
vulgaris  Linne),  and  has  therefore  also  received  the  name  of  "  lilacine." 
Its  specific  gravity  is  0.940  at  15°  C.  Boiling  jjoint  216°  to  218°  C. 
It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  vaseline,  and  the  iatij  oils. 

Terpineol  is  a  highly  esteemed  article  in  the  manufacture  of  fine 
perfumes  or  floral  extracts,  especially  the  so-called  "lilac,"  and  is  also 
used  for  perfuming  toilet  soaps. 

(For  some  interesting  scientific  investigations  relating  to  ter[)ineol 
and  its  derivatives,  see  Wallach,  in  lAebig's  Annalen,  275,  pp.  103,  151, 
277,  p.  105;  and  Baeyer,  in  Bor.  d.  deutsch.  chem.  Gen.,  2G,  p.  826,  27, 
p.  443.) 

Thymol.    c,„  H14  o  or  c.  h.  — cfn,  Thymol. 

\()H 
[]\[ethyl-propyl  phenol.] 

(German:  Thymol.) 

This  body  is  recognized  by  Ijoth  the  United  States  and  German  Phar- 
macopoeias, where  its  characters  and  tests  for  purity  are  fully  described. 

It  occurs  in  the  essential  oils  of  Tliymus  vidgaris  Linne,  Jlonarda 
punctida  Linne  (Nat.  Oixl.  Lahiatce),  and  Carum  Ajoican  (Roxburgh) 
Bentham  et  Hooker  (Nat.  Ord.  UmheUifene). 

Thymol  forms  "large,  colorless,  translucent  crj'stals  of  the  hexa- 
gonal system,  having  an  aromatic,  thyme-like  odor,  and  a  pungent, 
'aromatic  taste,  with  a  very  slight  caustic  effect  upon  the  lips. 

Its  specific  gravity,  as  a  solid,  is  1.069  at  15°  C,  but  when 
liquefied  by  fusion  it  is  lighter  than  water.  It  melts  at  50°  to  51°  C, 
remaining  liquid  at  considerably  lower  temperatures.  It  is  soluble  in 
about  1200  parts  of  water  at  15^  C,  and  in  less  than  its  own  weight  of 
alcohol,  ether,  or  chloroform.  Its  alcoholic  solution  is  optically  inactive. " 

Tln-mol  possesses  valuable  antiseptic  properties. 

Valerianic  Ether,  see  Ethyl  Yalerianate. 


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